Queen Creek, Arizona – A 12-year-old boy named Johnathan "Nate" Phillips, who has autism, has been reported missing, sparking concern and a significant search effort in the community. Nate was last seen in the area of Chandler Heights and Sossman around 4:33 p.m. on Sunday, August 18, 2024. He is described as 5′ 4" tall, weighing 105 pounds, and was last seen wearing a black shirt and black pants.
The Queen Creek Police Department issued an alert and is urging anyone with information to come forward. They have provided a contact number for tips: 480-358-3500, or in an emergency, residents are advised to dial 9-1-1.
The local community has responded swiftly to the news, with many residents sharing the information on social media and offering assistance. Stephanie Sandoval commented on Facebook, "Do you need help searching for this child?" while Mandy Munoz shared a personal story, reflecting on a similar incident, saying, "A year ago I was riding my bike in the wash when a kiddo who has autism came up to me and was lost, I helped him find his way back to his street. Could this have happened here? Maybe he went into the wash and can’t find his way back to his house?"
Others have expressed concern about the need for an organized search party and the possibility of issuing a Silver Alert due to Nate’s cognitive disability. Leila Woodard urged authorities, "Please initiate a silver alert as he meets criteria for cognitive disability."
The Queen Creek Police Department and the local community are working together in hopes of bringing Nate home safely. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and report any sightings or information that could assist in locating Nate.