Desperate Search Continues for Missing Teenager, Demar Franklin

Last Seen: August 15, 2023, at approximately 11:30 p.m.

Location: Woodland Park, Chicago, Illinois

Description: Demar Franklin is a 16-year-old African American male. He is approximately 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighs 135 pounds. Demar has brown eyes and short, black hair. He was last seen wearing a blue hooded sweatshirt, black jeans, and white sneakers.

Timeline of Events

August 15, 2023:

• 11:30 p.m.: Demar leaves his home in Woodland Park.
• 11:45 p.m.: Surveillance footage captures Demar walking alone near the park entrance.

August 16, 2023:

• 6:00 a.m.: Demar's parents report him missing to local authorities.
• 12:00 p.m.: Police launch a full-scale search of Woodland Park and surrounding areas.
• 8:00 p.m.: A vigil is held at Demar's home, attended by family, friends, and community members.

Missing Person Investigation

The Chicago Police Department is actively investigating Demar's disappearance. The investigation includes:

• Interviews with family, friends, and potential witnesses.
• Analysis of surveillance footage and cell phone records.
• Ground searches and aerial surveillance.

Community Involvement

The Woodland Park community has rallied together to assist in the search for Demar.

• Volunteers have organized search parties and distributed missing person flyers.
• Local businesses have donated supplies and offered support.
• A \$10,000 reward has been offered for information leading to Demar's safe return.

Statistics on Missing Teenagers

According to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs), there were 537,666 missing teenagers reported in the United States in 2022.

• One in six missing persons is a child under the age of 18.
• African American children are twice as likely to go missing than white children.
• 60% of missing teenagers are classified as endangered runaways.

Tips for Preventing Child Abduction

Parents and caregivers can take steps to reduce the risk of child abduction:

• Supervise children closely.
• Talk to children about stranger danger and safety rules.
• Teach children to report suspicious behavior or approaches.
• Establish a family safety plan.
• Keep a recent photo and description of your child on hand.

Tricks for Communicating Effectively

• Use clear and concise language.
• State facts and avoid speculation.
• Show empathy and compassion.
• Listen actively and ask open-ended questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What should I do if I see Demar Franklin?

• Call 9-1-1 immediately.
• Do not approach Demar yourself.
• Provide as much detail as possible.

Q: How can I help in the search for Demar?

• Distribute missing person flyers.
• Join search parties if possible.
• Donate supplies or funds to the search effort.

Q: What should I do if my child goes missing?

• Report the disappearance to the police immediately.
• Provide a complete and accurate description of your child.
• Stay in close contact with law enforcement and search teams.

Call to Action

The Chicago Police Department urges anyone with information about Demar Franklin's whereabouts to come forward. The safe return of this young man is a top priority for the community.

Contact the Chicago Police Department at (312) 744-8263.

Together, we can bring Demar home.