Friendswood, Texas – Joshua Gross, 23, who was reported missing on August 20, 2024, has been found safe, according to an update from the Friendswood Police Department. The department received the report late on August 20th, after Gross left his home in the 400 block of Linda Lane around 2:47 PM that day.
Gross, who suffers from mental illness, was last seen wearing a distinctive orange shirt, teal pants with a SpongeBob Squarepants design, and brown house shoes. After the initial report, there was significant concern for his safety, leading to a community-wide effort to locate him.
The news of his safe return brought relief to many in the community, as evident in numerous social media posts. Gina Cassisa- Van Ryckeghem expressed her gratitude by saying, "Thank you, sweet Jesus." Trisha Stevens also shared her relief, stating, "So glad to hear he has been found."
Earlier, many community members reported sightings of Gross across different locations. Erick N Trace Ruano noted, "My wife and I saw him yesterday at 6:50 PM near Costco. He crossed the street at Genesis and 528 heading north towards the freeway." Similarly, Katie-Jean White mentioned, "I saw him walking around 6:10 this morning right in front of the Costco gas station with no shirt on. Walking south on the feeder."
The Friendswood Police Department thanked the community for their vigilance and assistance in ensuring Gross’s safe return.