A late-night emergency unfolded just before midnight when a teenage boy with autism jumped from a moving car near the Family Dollar on 11th Street, sending his terrified family into crisis and launching a police search through the streets of Portsmouth.
The teen, described as 6’2″ and 250 pounds, was last seen walking south on Offnere Street, disappearing under the underpass. His family immediately called 911, and Portsmouth officers sprang into action, searching by foot and vehicle.
For nearly 90 minutes, the teen was missing in the darkness.
At 1:30 a.m., officers finally spotted the boy on 10th Street. Dispatch contacted his mother, who rushed to meet them on Gay Street, where officers safely reunited the teen with his family.
👏 A Big Thank You to Portsmouth Police
Thanks to the calm, coordinated, and compassionate response by local officers, this situation ended safely. Their quick thinking and thorough search likely prevented what could have been a tragic outcome.
🧠 Why It’s Crucial to Tell Officers About Autism—Especially During a Crisis
When someone with autism goes missing, especially a teen or adult-sized individual, it’s critical for families to share that information with 911 immediately.
Here’s why:
- 👮 Officers may not get the typical responses they expect in a high-stress situation.
- 🗣️ Some individuals may not respond to verbal commands, especially from strangers.
- 🧍 Size and appearance can be misinterpreted, especially if the person is nonverbal or appears agitated.
- 🗺️ Many individuals with autism are drawn to water, train tracks, or secluded areas, which can be extremely dangerous.
✅ What to Do if Your Loved One with Autism Goes Missing:
- 📞 Call 911 immediately and explain they have autism.
- 📸 Give a clear description, including height, weight, and what they were wearing.
- 📍 Mention any known patterns or favorite places they might go.
- 💬 Share how they typically respond to stress or strangers.
- 🔔 Consider registering with local agencies or safety programs for faster response in the future.
This incident is a powerful reminder that behind every emergency are real people, real fears—and in this case, a very real hero moment for Portsmouth’s finest.