In Henderson County, Texas, local authorities are actively searching for a missing 4-year-old boy, Aleksander-Gene Jupiter Lay, who was last seen on Thursday night in Athens. The young boy was spotted around 8:30 p.m. at Jud’s Texas Market, a local establishment in the area.

Suspect and Vehicle Information

Investigators have identified 40-year-old Michael Don Darden as a suspect in the case. Darden currently has an active arrest warrant for kidnapping, and it is believed that he may be with the missing child. Authorities are also on the lookout for a silver 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, bearing the Texas license plate VFV5438, which may be connected to the incident.

Community Involvement

The Henderson County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information about the whereabouts of Aleksander-Gene or Darden to come forward. Community members can contact the Sheriff’s Office directly at 903-675-5128. Additionally, tips can be submitted anonymously through Henderson County Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-545-TIPS.

The safety of the child is of utmost concern, and local law enforcement is working diligently to resolve the situation. The community’s assistance is crucial in ensuring a swift and safe resolution to this distressing incident.

Original reporting: CBS19 / KYTX (Tyler) — read the source article.