UPDATE: Body of 15-year-old autistic boy in Baldwin County found
Deputies say Epps’ body was found Wednesday afternoon.
UPDATE: (11/26 – 4:15 p.m.): According to the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, the body of Jeffrey Epps was found Wednesday just before 4:15 p.m.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the recovery of the body of Jeffrey Epps at approximately 16:14 today,” a post on the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page said.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the more than 200 volunteers, as well as the dedicated public safety and law enforcement agencies, whose tireless efforts made this possible.” At this difficult time, we ask that the privacy of Jeffrey’s family be respected. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this challenging period.”
The post did not specify where Epps’ body was found. We’re working to learn more.
UPDATE (11/26) – Baldwin County Fire Rescue gave an update at 3:30 a.m. on Wednesday. They say emergency crews have continued around-the-clock search operations for 15-year-old Jeffrey Epps who went missing Monday afternoon. They say crews will continue conducting a grid search, as well as clearing all waterway areas.
In a recent Facebook post, they say “the outpouring of support from our citizens is incredible, as is the assistance you are providing us each and every day in efforts to bring this young man home safely.”
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UPDATE (11/25 – 6:30 p.m.): The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office said in an update at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday that the search continues for Jeffrey Epps.
“If located DO NOT approach, remain quiet and dial 911,” the update said. “Simply monitor him until help arrives. If you approach him, he may flee or become defensive. Jeffrey is non-verbal and may not respond to his name.”
UPDATE (11/25 – 12 p.m.): The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office is asking residents of the Coopers Community (any areas between Highway 49 and Gordon Highway) to check any trail cameras you may have on your property and to search any sheds, outbuildings, barns, campers, pools and vehicles for signs of Jeffrey Epps.
“If located DO NOT approach,” an update Tuesday morning said. “Remain quiet and dial 911. Simply monitor him until help arrives. If you approach him, he may flee or become defensive.”
Deputies reminded the public that Epps is non-verbal and may not respond to his name.
He’s 5’3″ and weighs about 135 pounds.
UPDATE (11/25 – 9 a.m.): The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office says the search for Jeffrey Epps continues Tuesday morning. A social media update from the sheriff’s office just before 9 a.m. said any help is appreciated. Call (478) 445-4891 to help.
UPDATE (11/25 – 12:41 a.m.): Baldwin County Fire Rescue said in a social media update just after 12:30 a.m. Tuesday that the search for missing 15-year-old Jeffrey Epps will continue throughout the night.
“All available resources” have been deployed, including K-9 units, multiple thermal drones, a helicopter, ATVs, UTVs and grid searches of wooded areas.
Baldwin County Fire, Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, Milledgeville Police, Atrium EMS, Georgia State Patrol, Georgia DNR, Wilkinson County Fire, Baldwin County EMA are all involved, as well as “citizens from all over Baldwin County,” the post said.
If you see Epps, call 911.
UPDATE (11/24 – 10 p.m.): The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office said in a social media update just before 10 p.m. Monday that crews were still searching for Epps.
“He HAS NOT been located yet,” the update said.
ORIGINAL STORY (11/24 – 5:25 p.m.):
MILLEDGEVILLE, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Baldwin County deputies and fire crews are searching for a missing 15-year-old boy last seen in the area of Torrance Road, according to social media posts from the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office and Baldwin County Fire Rescue.
The sheriff’s office said in a Facebook post that Jeffrey Epps is a “Non-Verbal autistic male” who was last seen wearing a yellow shirt and gray shorts. Deputies are asking anyone who sees him to call the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office at (478) 445-4891.
Baldwin County Fire Rescue shared the post and said crews are assisting with the search.
“Please call 911 if you see this young man,” the post said. “Fire crews are currently on the scene, assisting with this search. Drones, Side by Sides, and crews are currently searching the entire area.”
Deputies have not released additional details on the circumstances of Epps’ disappearance.
