Authorities in New Orleans are conducting an intensive search for 12-year-old Bryan Vasquez, a nonverbal child who has gone missing from the Michoud neighborhood.
Bryan, who requires daily seizure medication, was last seen on Thursday morning, according to Ring doorbell footage from his residence. The footage shows him wearing only an adult diaper, but officials now fear he may be unclothed.
Search teams have been canvassing the neighborhood, going door-to-door and examining nearby waterways, drains, and other areas where Bryan could be. Police and emergency responders have emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that the child’s medical condition makes his safety a growing concern.
“We are treating this as a high-priority case,” said a spokesperson for the New Orleans Police Department. “Every hour counts, and we are doing everything possible to locate Bryan quickly.”
Despite the dire circumstances, Bryan’s family and local volunteers remain resolute in their hope. Christie Vasquez, Bryan’s mother, spoke candidly about the uncertainty, expressing both fear and optimism. “We will have hope that Bryan is found safe. We will always have hope until the last minute and even after that,” she said.
“If we recover Bryan’s body, for any chance that he’s no longer with us, we will still be grateful that we’re able to find him.” Her words reflect the family’s determination to stay positive, even as time passes without new leads.
Volunteers have joined law enforcement in the search, forming human chains, checking local parks, abandoned buildings, and waterways, and distributing flyers with Bryan’s description.
Social media campaigns have amplified awareness, encouraging community members to report any sightings or relevant information. Authorities have stressed that anyone who believes they have seen Bryan or has information about his whereabouts should call 911 immediately.
Experts note that missing children with medical or neurological conditions require particularly urgent responses, as they may be more vulnerable to environmental hazards or disorientation.
“Children who are nonverbal and have medical needs, like Bryan, face heightened risks when they are missing,” said a child safety specialist. “Rapid response, community support, and coordination with local authorities are critical in increasing the chances of a safe recovery.”
The search continues around the clock as authorities and volunteers persist in their efforts to locate Bryan. Residents in the Michoud neighborhood are asked to remain vigilant and report any unusual activity.
Police are coordinating with nearby agencies, including the Coast Guard and local fire departments, to expand the search to waterways and larger areas beyond the immediate neighborhood.
The family, while facing a heart-wrenching situation, continues to express gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community. “We appreciate every person who is helping us and praying for Bryan,” Christie Vasquez said. “It gives us strength to keep going.”
Anyone with information about Bryan Vasquez’s location is urged to contact 911 immediately. Authorities stress that every tip, no matter how small, could prove vital in reuniting Bryan with his family.
