Jacksonville, Florida – Earlier this summer, District 3 Patrol officers received an unusual call when a 5-year-old boy, William, wandered into a Chick-fil-A on San Jose Boulevard by himself.

Officers Kelly and Perri found William happily enjoying breakfast and receiving attention from the restaurant staff. After a bit of detective work and a ride in a police car, William identified his home.

The only challenge: the gate was locked. While William had squeezed through earlier, the officers could not. Officer Perri climbed over the gate and knocked on the door, surprising his parents with the news of their son’s morning adventure.

A few weeks later, William and his family reunited with Officers Kelly and Perri at the same Chick-fil-A where it all began.

Officials emphasized that William’s parents were not at fault. “This is a good reminder to teach kids their home address, parents’ names, and a phone number. It could make a big difference in an emergency,” the department said.

Chick-fil-A employees were praised for keeping William safe until the officers arrived and calling for help immediately.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download