Upsettingly, 8-year-old Anthony Thomas has been placed on the Endangered Missing Person Alert (EMPA) by the Washington State Patrol after he vanished from Seattle, Washington on February 1, 2024. The Seattle Police Department and state authorities are requesting the public’s assistance in finding the missing child.
A Timeline Unfolds: The Disappearance
Around 10:00 p.m. on February 1, 2024, Anthony Thomas was last seen traveling north on Hubble Place, towards a bus stop at 9th and Seneca. Near Safeway and McDonald’s in the Rainier Beach area, there have been unconfirmed sightings reported by transit drivers. The child’s father, who is also missing, was informed by a passerby that his son was missing. They are both thought to be homeless, possibly living in encampments in the area, and the SPD is worried about their well-being since they can’t find the father at this time.
Description and Clothing Details: A Distinctive Appearance
Anthony wore a red Adidas shirt, khaki pants, a blue jacket, and a black Adidas backpack the last time anyone saw him. An additional peculiarity to his look was the bed pad he slung over his shoulder. If you have seen him or know anything about his whereabouts, the authorities are asking that you come forward.
EMP Alert and Statewide Action
On February 2, 2024, the Washington State Patrol underscored the critical nature of Anthony’s disappearance by activating the EMPA. Important details regarding the missing child are included in the alert, which also asks for the community’s immediate help in finding the child. Public awareness and participation in the search for the endangered juvenile will be maximized through the statewide dissemination of this information.
Search Area and Unconfirmed Sightings: Rainier Beach and Beyond
There have been unconfirmed sightings near Safeway and McDonald’s near the Rainier Beach area, so that’s where the search is focused. It is highly recommended that transit drivers in the area stay alert and report anything they think could be a sighting. Authorities are trying to verify these reports, so the community’s help in finding Anthony Thomas is crucial.
Homelessness Adds Complexity to the Search
Adding insult to injury, Anthony and his father may be living in local encampments due to widespread speculation that they are homeless. Because of this, the search becomes even more complicated, since conventional ways of identifying people might not work in this setting.
Community Call to Action: How You Can Help
Police in Seattle are asking for the public’s help in finding Anthony and returning him home safely. Call the Seattle Police Department at (206) 625-5011 or 911 right away if you know anything about his location or if you think you might have seen him. Ref#: 2024-030496 is the case number. Cooperation between the community and law enforcement is of the utmost importance at this crucial moment. There is a better chance of a quick and positive resolution to this troubling situation if more people are vigilant. We must unite as a community to guarantee the safe return of Anthony Thomas, an 8-year-old.
