Waco Police Search for Missing 7-Year-Old Boy with Autism

The child was last seen in the 800 block of Dearborn without a shirt or shoes.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 6:10pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a child's shoe or article of clothing, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the search for a missing child.The search for a missing child with autism exposes the urgent need for greater community support and vigilance.Waco Today

Waco Police are asking the public for help in locating a missing 7-year-old boy named Josiah Sterling who has autism. Josiah was last seen in the 800 block of Dearborn, wearing only gray gym shorts. Officials say he may hide in backyards and is known to run away from strangers.

Why it matters

Children with autism are at a higher risk of wandering and going missing, which can be extremely dangerous. The Waco community is coming together to assist police in locating Josiah and returning him safely to his caregivers.

The details

Josiah Sterling was last seen without a shirt, shoes, or other identifying clothing. Police say he has autism and may hide in backyards, as well as run away from strangers. Josiah is enrolled in the Take Me Home Program, which provides critical information to law enforcement to help safely communicate with and return individuals with developmental or cognitive disabilities to their caregivers.

  • Josiah Sterling was last seen on April 19, 2026.

The players

Josiah Sterling

A 7-year-old boy with autism who is currently missing.

Waco Police

The law enforcement agency searching for the missing child.

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What’s next

Police are urging anyone who sees Josiah or knows where he may be to call 922 immediately to assist in his safe return.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of community awareness and support for children with autism, who are at a higher risk of wandering and going missing. The Waco community is coming together to help locate Josiah and ensure his safe return to his caregivers.