BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A coordinated effort between local police, firefighters, and emergency services led to the safe recovery of a missing autistic child on the evening of May 20, 2025, near the Freedom Skate Park in Beckley.
At 6:49 p.m., Beckley Police officers and Beckley Fire Department personnel were dispatched to 306 N. Eisenhower Drive after a juvenile male with autism wandered away from his mother. Officers quickly set up a perimeter and initiated a search based on the last known location reported by family members.
The Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office was called in to assist with a bloodhound, while the Beckley Fire Department deployed a drone to aid in the search from the air. The drone pilot quickly located the child, and Deputy Chief Allard coordinated ground responders to his position.
Cpl. Sweetser of the Beckley Police Department and a deputy from the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office were able to reach the juvenile and ensure his safety. He was then transported by JanCare Ambulance to a local hospital for precautionary evaluation.
Beckley Police Chief Dean Bailey praised the successful team effort, extending thanks to the City of Beckley Fire Department, JanCare Ambulance, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office, and the Beckley-Raleigh County Emergency Services (EOC) for their swift and effective response.
The child was found safe, and the incident serves as a reminder of the power of collaboration in emergency situations.
