Boy Back with Family After Large Police Search

9-year-old found safe after going missing in Scottdale area of Berrien County, Michigan

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A 9-year-old boy who went missing in the Scottdale area of Berrien County, Michigan on Monday was found safe about two hours after being reported missing. A large-scale police search involving multiple agencies was launched due to the cold weather and approaching dusk, and the boy was located about a mile from where he was last seen.

Why it matters

The quick response and coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies in the community helped ensure the safe return of the missing child, highlighting the importance of community collaboration in emergency situations.

The details

The boy was reported missing around 4:15 pm on Monday after running away from his family at a gas station on the corner of Miners Road and M-139. Berrien County Undersheriff Greg Sanders said the boy has a history of running off and covering a lot of ground quickly. Michigan State Police, Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety, the Berrien County Sheriff's Department, Cass County Sheriff's Department, and a private drone company all assisted in the search efforts.

  • The boy was reported missing around 4:15 pm on Monday.
  • The boy was found about two hours later, around 6:15 pm.

The players

Greg Sanders

Berrien County Undersheriff who coordinated the search efforts.

Michigan State Police

Law enforcement agency that assisted in the search.

Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety

Law enforcement agency that assisted in the search.

Berrien County Sheriff's Department

Law enforcement agency that led the search efforts.

Cass County Sheriff's Department

Law enforcement agency that assisted in the search.

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What they’re saying

“I think that really represents what kind of community we live in when lots of people respond at a moment's notice to pitch in and help look for a child.”

— Greg Sanders, Berrien County Undersheriff (wsjm.com)

The takeaway

The successful search and safe return of the missing child demonstrates the importance of strong community ties and the willingness of local law enforcement agencies to work together to respond to emergency situations.