August 18, 2025

Intensified Search for Missing 12-Year-Old in New Orleans

News Summary

The search for 12-year-old Bryan Vasquez, reported missing from his New Orleans home, is intensifying as the NOPD shifts the investigation to its Special Victims Division. Bryan, described as a non-verbal Hispanic male, was last seen wearing an adult diaper. Authorities urge the public to help in checking backyards and security footage as they assign a dedicated detective to lead the case, emphasizing the urgency of locating him due to his vulnerable condition and special needs.

New Orleans – The search for 12-year-old Bryan Vasquez, who was reported missing from his home on Beaucaire Street, is intensifying, with the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) transitioning the investigation to its Special Victims Division on the third day of efforts to locate him. Bryan was last seen at approximately 10 a.m. on Thursday, August 14.

Bryan is described as a non-verbal Hispanic male, about 5 feet 1 inch tall and weighing between 86 and 100 pounds. He has brown eyes and black hair. At the time he went missing, he was wearing an adult diaper and is believed to be walking in an unknown direction. The area currently being searched includes the neighborhood bounded by Chef Menteur Highway, Dwyer Road, Michoud Boulevard, and Interstate 510.

NOPD Superintendent Anne E. Kirkpatrick stressed the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the department’s priority to bring Bryan home safely. The public is urged to remain vigilant and participate in the search efforts. Residents are being encouraged to check their backyards, investigate under raised homes, and review any available security camera footage that may provide clues regarding Bryan’s whereabouts.

The NOPD has assigned Detective Mario Bravo, a specialist in recovering missing and exploited children, as the lead investigator on the case. His experience as a certified interpreter is expected to aid in communicating the necessary information regarding Bryan’s condition and needs, as he does not understand either English or Spanish, and requires regular medication.

While there has been a reduction in active field resources, NOPD officers will continue to canvass neighborhoods and pursue any leads related to Bryan’s disappearance. The authorities are particularly focused on disseminating information that may help locate him quickly, given his vulnerable condition.

Bryan’s family has expressed their deep concern for his well-being and emphasized the critical nature of any information that could lead to locating him. They are appealing to the public to come forward with any details regarding his whereabouts, no matter how small they may seem.

Anyone with information related to Bryan’s location is encouraged to contact the NOPD at (504) 658-6070 or dial 911. The cooperation of the community is deemed vital in the search, as local residents are often the first to notice anything unusual in their environment that could provide a breakthrough in finding Bryan.

The search for missing children, especially those with special needs, is often challenging yet crucial. The community’s collective awareness and responsiveness can make a significant difference in the outcome. The NOPD continues its commitment to ensuring the safety of all its residents and the resolution of missing persons cases as swiftly and efficiently as possible.

As the investigation unfolds, updates will be crucial for keeping the public informed and engaged in the search for Bryan, reinforcing the importance of community in addressing such urgent cases.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER

NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.

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