NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Search crews are still looking for Sebastian Rogers — a missing 15-year-old teen with autism in Middle Tennessee — who they believe has walked away from his home.
This is the fourth day of the search, and there haven't been any confirmed sightings of Sebastian, authorities said Thursday afternoon in a press conference. Scent trained dogs have not led authorities anywhere. They are using drones, dogs, aircraft — or as they said "anything at our disposal."
Authorities stress help from the public to look twice a day on their properties in Sumner County to look for any disturbances. Sebastian, described as 5’5 and 120 pounds, was last seen near Stafford Court in Hendersonville wearing a black sweatshirt, black sweatpants and glasses. He has dirty blond hair. On Thursday, they were moving west to try to find Sebastian.
"The stamina and pain threshold and drive in these men and women with autism is greater than ours," Sumner County EMA Director Ken Weidner said. "We know the tendency to follow creeks is great."
Searches went 2,000 miles by foot the first two days of the search. Authorities said even if you live in Davidson or Robertson County, search near creeks, tributaries, ponds, outbuildings you think he could be. Search in pairs so any aircraft above don't mistake anyone looking on their property for Sebastian.
"We want to make sure he is brought home safely," said Eric Craddock, chief deputy with the Sumner County Sheriff's Office.
Jessica Moore, executive director of Autism Tennessee, stressed to NewsChannel 5 this week there is urgency in finding Sebastian quickly.
"Someone who is used to routine, who has a daily schedule, different aspects of their lives that are repetitive every day, it can be stressful not to have those pieces in place."
Moore believes Sebastian may be a sensory seeker, drawn to confined spaces.
"Someone who enjoys a lot of pressure, deep pressure, and hiding — those more confined spaces are calming."
In case Sebastian is spotted, Moore advised remaining calm during the interaction.
"Approach slowly with calm words and a calm demeanor. I'm sure he's feeling a lot of stress, at least I would be in that situation."
Moore hopes Sebastian returns home safely. She's sending her best wishes to the family and first responders involved in the search.
"I also live in Hendersonville. This is also my community, so my heart goes out to this family and first responders involved in this search."
As the search continues, authorities request the public's assistance in reporting any potential sightings or concerns by calling 615-451-3838. Additionally, residents are urged to review home surveillance footage and report anything unusual.
Fostering Hope provides Christmas for kids in foster care. I'm delighted to see Fostering Hope expand this year to expand their reach to now include kids in Foster care in metro AND foster kids in East TN hard hit by Helene.
-Bree Smith
