Josephine, United States – On December 20, 2025, Josephine Police Department officers rescued a missing 3-year-old child with autism in the Magnolia Pointe area.

Officers were dispatched at approximately 8:25 PM after the child had been missing for about 30 minutes. The child’s parents were actively searching the area when officers arrived.

Trained in locating missing children, Josephine Police immediately began a search. Understanding that children with autism are often drawn to water, officers focused on nearby ponds and bodies of water.

During the search, the child was found in a pond. Officers entered the water and successfully rescued the child, who was evaluated and confirmed to be physically unharmed, with no injuries reported.

The Josephine Police Department praised the officers for their quick response, training, and decisive actions, which ensured the child’s safe recovery.

Authorities remind the public to contact 911 immediately if a child goes missing, emphasizing that rapid response is critical in such situations.

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