The child was wearing socks, sweatpants and a T-shirt and was darting in and out of traffic on NE 172nd Ave.

On Thursday (Nov. 23) at 2:55 p.m., Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency (CRESA 9-1-1) received a call from a citizen regarding a child in danger in the area of Pacific Park located at NE 172^nd Ave. and NE 18^th St., in Vancouver.  

A Clark County Sheriff’s Office deputy was dispatched and while enroute multiple citizens were calling describing the child, a male 11 or 12 years old, wearing socks, sweatpants and a T-shirt, darting in and out of traffic on NE 172^nd Ave. This area of Vancouver is very busy, and traffic was heavy.  Further information indicated one of the reporting citizens was able to get the child to the park and he was now sitting in a vehicle.

When the deputy arrived, four of the involved citizens were there and informed the deputy that the child was autistic and non-verbal.  Deputies and dispatchers began searching past reports and records for similar incidents that might help identify the child.  

The citizens on scene began taking initiative and reaching out to other resources. One citizen works for a school district and began making inquiries.  One citizen drove the area to look for someone who may be out looking for the child. Another took a photo of the child and posted on social media hoping for a quick identification.

While the efforts were being made, the father of the boy had called 9-1-1 to report his child missing. The child was returned home, and it was learned the family recently moved to the area and were still setting up their home to better watch the young boy who wandered off.

“This incident highlights the strong community that exists in Clark County and the need for citizen involvement when it comes to assisting law enforcement,’’ read a Clark County Sheriff’s Office statement.  “The Sheriff’s Office thanks those who assisted in getting this young man home.’’

Information provided by Clark County Sheriff’s Office.