23-Year-Old Goes Missing After Failing to Board Flight Home to France

Elijah Hoard's dad says his son has a mental illness and was hesitant to return home after a 10-day visit.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Elijah Joseph Hoard, a 23-year-old living in France, was reported missing after failing to board his return flight home from Chicago's O'Hare Airport on February 27. Hoard had spent 10 days visiting his father, Antwon Hoard, in Chicago, but in the last two days of his trip, his mood had drastically changed and he became adamant about not wanting to go back home. Antwon Hoard said his son's phone has been off since Friday night and that Elijah only had enough money to be on his own for a few days.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges families can face when a loved one with a mental illness is reluctant to seek help or return home. Elijah's disappearance after failing to board his flight raises concerns about his wellbeing and safety, especially given his limited resources and potential need for medical attention.

The details

According to police, Elijah Hoard was last seen wearing a brown hooded sweatshirt, black sweatpants, and cream-colored shoes. He is described as 6 feet, 3 inches tall and weighing around 220 lbs. Antwon Hoard said his son's mood had drastically changed in the last two days of his visit, and Elijah became adamant about not wanting to return home to France.

  • Elijah Hoard was last seen on Friday, February 27, at the Chicago O'Hare International Airport.
  • Hoard had spent 10 days visiting his father in Chicago before he was supposed to return to France.

The players

Elijah Joseph Hoard

A 23-year-old man living in France who was reported missing after failing to board his return flight home from Chicago.

Antwon Hoard

Elijah Hoard's father, who said his son has a mental illness and was hesitant to return home after a 10-day visit.

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What they’re saying

“Everything seemed pretty normal the first eight days, but the last two days his whole mood had swung, and he was really adamant about not going back home, and he didn't want to go home.”

— Antwon Hoard, Elijah Hoard's father (WLS)

“Obviously when you have a missing child it's all unsettling, but I'm not the type of guy that's going to be nervous or overreact until we have more information.”

— Antwon Hoard, Elijah Hoard's father (WLS)

What’s next

Police are asking anyone with information about Elijah Hoard's whereabouts to contact Area One SVU detectives at 312-747-8380.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of mental health support and resources for individuals and families dealing with mental illness. The disappearance of Elijah Hoard after he became reluctant to return home raises concerns about the challenges faced by those struggling with their mental health and the need for greater awareness and access to care.