Police Seek Help Finding Missing Autistic Man in West Latham Area

Neighbors urged to check wooded areas for 20-year-old Richard 'Ricky' Gray

Apr. 3, 2026 at 7:35am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a cracked and weathered wooden park bench, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the search for a missing person in an urban setting.A stark, gritty image of a damaged public bench highlights the urgency of the search for a missing autistic man in Peoria's West Latham neighborhood.Peoria Today

Peoria police are asking residents, especially around West Latham Lane, to help locate 20-year-old Richard 'Ricky' Gray, an autistic man with the mentality of an 8-year-old who went missing just after midnight Wednesday. Neighbors are urged to check nearby wooded or shaded areas and call Peoria police, Tip411, or Crime Stoppers immediately with any sightings or information.

Why it matters

Autistic individuals can be at higher risk of going missing, and quick community response is crucial for their safe return. The West Latham area has seen previous missing person cases, highlighting the importance of vigilance and coordination between police and residents.

The details

Gray was last seen wearing a blue t-shirt, blue jeans, and black sneakers. He has the mental capacity of an 8-year-old and may have difficulty communicating or finding his way home. Police have been searching the area since his disappearance but are asking the public to also check wooded and shaded spots where he may have sought refuge.

  • Gray was last seen just after midnight on Wednesday, April 3, 2026.

The players

Richard 'Ricky' Gray

A 20-year-old autistic man with the mentality of an 8-year-old who went missing in the West Latham area of Peoria.

Peoria Police Department

The local law enforcement agency leading the search for the missing man and asking the public for assistance.

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What’s next

Police continue to search the West Latham area and are asking the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings of Richard 'Ricky' Gray to authorities immediately.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of community awareness and quick response when an autistic individual goes missing, as they can be at higher risk and have difficulty communicating or finding their way home. Residents should learn the signs of autism and how to assist in search efforts to help ensure the safe return of vulnerable members of the community.