Utica police are asking the public to help find missing teen Belvin Abeka, a 13-year-old who was last seen Wednesday evening on Sherman Place in Utica. A New York State Missing Child Alert has been issued, and authorities say he may need medical attention. Search for Missing 13-Year-Old Belvin Abeka in Utica
Belvin’s disappearance has sparked concern across the community, with many residents expressing their hopes for his safe return. Local organizations and volunteers have begun mobilizing to assist law enforcement in the search efforts. The involvement of the community is crucial as they often provide valuable information that can lead to quicker resolutions in cases like this.
Police and state officials are urging anyone who sees Belvin or knows where he may be to call 911 immediately.
Belvin was last seen on Sherman Place
His last known whereabouts have become a focal point for investigators. Sherman Place is a busy area with both residential and commercial properties, making it essential for local businesses and residents to be on the lookout for any signs of Belvin.
According to information reported by CNYHomepage and corroborated by other local reporting, Belvin was last seen walking on Sherman Place at about 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 16.
Witnesses in the neighborhood reported seeing him in the vicinity around the time he went missing. Authorities are encouraging anyone who may have seen Belvin, even if it’s just a fleeting glance, to come forward. The timeline of events leading up to his disappearance is critical, and every detail can help piece together what happened.
Oneida County’s public 911 activity feed also showed an active missing-person call involving the Utica Police Department in the Sherman Place area late Wednesday night and into Thursday morning.
The search efforts have included door-to-door inquiries in the area, along with the review of security camera footage from nearby establishments. This method has proven effective in many missing-person cases, as it can help confirm sightings or provide leads on the missing individual’s direction of travel.
Authorities have identified Belvin as a vulnerable child because he has autism. The state alert says he “may be in need of medical attention,” adding urgency to the search.
Description of missing Utica teen Belvin Abeka
Belvin’s unique characteristics can be crucial in identifying him. Children with autism may react differently in stressful situations, which is why authorities emphasize the importance of recognizing his specific traits and behaviors. He may not respond verbally to strangers, so those who see him should approach him gently and reassure him.
Belvin is described as a Black male with black hair and brown eyes. He is approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighs about 110 pounds.
He was last seen wearing:
- A gray and black sweatshirt
- Light-colored pants
- Gray and black sneakers
Anyone who believes they have seen Belvin should avoid delaying a report while trying to confirm his identity on their own. A possible sighting, direction of travel, location, vehicle description, or other detail could help investigators.
Moreover, being aware of his favorite locations or activities may provide clues on where he might have gone. Children sometimes seek familiar places when they feel overwhelmed or anxious. This could include parks, stores, or other common hangouts where he feels comfortable.
What to do if you see Belvin
In addition to calling the police, community members are encouraged to share information through local social media groups, where updates can reach a wider audience quickly. This collaborative effort helps keep the community informed and engaged, increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome.
Police are asking members of the public to call 911 immediately if they see Belvin. Information can also be provided to the Utica Police Department at 315-223-3461.
When reporting a possible sighting, useful information can include the exact location, the time of the sighting, which direction the person was traveling, and a description of clothing or any vehicle involved. Do not put yourself or the missing child at risk while attempting to gather information.
Why quick public reporting matters
The Utica Police Department’s missing-person policy states that missing-person reports are not treated as routine and that officers should assume a missing person may need immediate assistance until an investigation shows otherwise. The department gives priority to missing-person cases over property-related calls.
The urgency of locating Belvin cannot be overstated, particularly given his age and condition. Parents and guardians are urged to remind their children about the importance of staying safe and reporting any unusual sightings to an adult immediately. Spreading awareness about such cases can also help prevent future incidents.
That makes timely public information especially important in a case involving a vulnerable child. Even a detail that seems minor may help investigators narrow a search area or reconstruct a timeline.
Community asked to share verified information
It is essential that the information being shared is accurate and based on verified reports to prevent misinformation. Social media can be a double-edged sword in these situations, as rumors can spread as quickly as facts. The community’s role in disseminating clear and correct information is vital for effective search efforts.
Residents can help by sharing the official photo and verified description rather than unconfirmed claims. In fast-moving missing-person cases, inaccurate social-media posts can create confusion and send attention in the wrong direction.
The Utica Phoenix will update this story if authorities announce that Belvin has been located or release additional verified information.
As updates come in, the community is advised to stay engaged and supportive, offering assistance where possible while respecting the family’s privacy during this distressing time. Local faith groups and support networks are also stepping in to provide emotional support to Belvin’s family and friends.
If you have information about Belvin Abeka’s whereabouts, call 911 or the Utica Police Department at 315-223-3461.
Sources
- CNYHomepage: Utica police searching for missing vulnerable teenager
- WIBX 950: Police Need Help Locating Missing Utica Teen With Autism
- Oneida County 911 Center Live Activity Feed
As the search for Belvin Abeka continues, it serves as a reminder of the community’s strength and unity in times of crisis. The collaboration between law enforcement and residents highlights the importance of vigilance and communication in ensuring the safety of all children. Let us all remain hopeful for Belvin’s safe return. Search for Missing 13-Year-Old Belvin Abeka in Utica
