UPDATE
A 6-year-old autistic boy who vanished from a Riverdale apartment complex Sunday has been found deceased.
According to CBS News, police found Ramon “RJ” Jett’s body in a pond Monday afternoon, in the 8000 block of Webb Road.
An investigation is underway to determine his official cause of death. No additional information is available at this time.
Initial Coverage
Police in Georgia are seeking tips in connection with a 6-year-old autistic boy last seen Sunday in Riverdale.
According to the Clayton County Police Department, Ramon “RJ” Jett was last seen between 11:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. at the Sutter Lake Apartments at 8104 Webb Road.
Family members said he likely left by foot. His mother, Ashley Harris, stated that the family woke from napping at around 1 p.m., to find RJ missing.
“From my understanding this is not their home,” Major Frank Thomas of Clayton County PD stated.
“They were staying here momentarily, but at normal home they had high locks on doors so he just couldn’t open regular handle. But the home here had safety door handles which he was able to manipulate.”
Harris told Atlanta’s 11Alive that her sister lives at the complex and that the family had been there to visit and go swimming. Harris left for work Sunday morning, leaving RJ with family members.
“Very hard not knowing where to look. We’ve searched everything and just hoping somebody sees him,” Harris said, according to WSB-TV Action News. “We’re just praying for good news.”
RJ is described as a “vulnerable” nonverbal Black male who stands 3 feet, 5 inches tall and weighs around 40 pounds. He was last seen in a green shirt, camouflage shorts, and white socks.
Residents are urged to check wooded areas, porches, sheds, and any areas that a child might seek shelter at. Police added that Joy Lake is within walking distance from the apartment complex.
“He may be a little standoffish, but if you can, please contact the police station immediately. Call him by his nickname [RJ],” Harris added.
“That might make him more welcome. He loves numbers, letters, nursery rhymes, and stuff like that. So he’s drawn to stuff like that.”
Anyone with information on RJ’s whereabouts is urged to call 911.
[Featured image via Clayton County PD]
