August 19, 2025

Search Efforts Intensify for Missing New Orleans Boy

News Summary

The search for Bryan Vasquez, a 12-year-old boy with special needs who has been missing for several days in New Orleans East, is ongoing. Authorities are utilizing excavators, drones, and local volunteers to comb the area where he vanished. Bryan, who is nonverbal and on the autism spectrum, was last seen wearing only a diaper. Community involvement is significant, with many residents urged to check their properties for any signs of him. Law enforcement has issued an endangered missing child alert as the family remains hopeful for a safe return.

New Orleans

The search continues for Bryan Vasquez, a 12-year-old boy with special needs who has been missing for five days in New Orleans East. Bryan, who is nonverbal and on the autism spectrum, was last seen on August 14, 2025, at around 5:30 a.m. in the Village de L’Est neighborhood. He was wearing only an adult diaper when a doorbell camera captured him walking alone prior to his disappearance.

Authorities have ramped up rescue efforts, employing excavators, airboats, and drones to search the marshes and canals in the area. The Sewerage and Water Board has joined the search by clearing marsh plants to enhance visibility and accessibility. Additionally, the Cajun Navy is providing thermal drones to navigate hard-to-reach areas under the challenging conditions.

Local volunteers, family members, and law enforcement agencies have been actively involved in the search since the alarm was raised. Together, they are combing through the surroundings and checking backyards and under homes for any signs of Bryan. Despite facing various challenges, Bryan’s family and supporters remain hopeful for his safe return.

Details About Bryan Vasquez

Bryan is described as a happy and loving child who communicates uniquely by banging objects or responding to interactions with hugs. His mother, Hilda Vasquez, has been especially vocal about the distressing situation. He is a Hispanic male with brown eyes, black hair, approximately 5’1″ tall, and weighs between 86 to 100 pounds.

Compounding the urgency of the situation, authorities have discovered a discarded diaper, suggesting that Bryan may be unclothed. In response to his disappearance, the Louisiana State Police and the New Orleans Police Department issued a Level II Endangered and Missing Child alert. This notice underlines the seriousness of the case and the continued efforts to locate Bryan as quickly as possible.

Community Involvement

In the community surrounding New Orleans East, there has been an outpouring of concern and support. Community members are encouraged to be vigilant and check their properties for any signs of Bryan. The involvement of local, state, and federal agencies illustrates the collaborative effort required in missing child cases, including using bloodhounds from the Louisiana State Penitentiary as part of the search operations.

As the search enters its sixth day, officials urge anyone with information regarding Bryan’s whereabouts to come forward. People are asked to contact the New Orleans Police Department at (504) 821-2222 or to call 911 if they have any potential leads to share.

As this story develops, the focus remains on Bryan’s safe return to his family. Moreover, the concerted efforts of local law enforcement, community members, and volunteers highlight the determination to bring Bryan home safely.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Louisiana Attorney General Sues Roblox Over Child Safety Issues
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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.

STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER

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