A Reseda family is breathing a sigh of relief after their 18‑year‑old son, Junior Saavedra, who has autism, was located three days after he went missing. Saavedra left his school in Reseda and was later spotted at El Mercadito in East Los Angeles, where authorities safely reunited him with his family.

Family describes Saavedra’s condition

Saavedra, who has limited verbal communication, often speaks only brief phrases such as “thank you,” “bye‑bye,” and “hi.” His mother’s boyfriend, Jose Gonzalez, explained, “He’s autistic, but he’s 18 years old, and he thinks like a four‑year‑old, maybe younger.” Because of his communication challenges, the family grew increasingly worried when he disappeared.

How the teen was found

A post on social media alerted the family to Saavedra’s whereabouts. A witness reported seeing him at the popular East Los Angeles market, El Mercadito, on Monday. Police responded quickly, and the Los Angeles School Police Department, the Los Angeles Police Department, and school staff worked together to locate and return the teen to his family.

School district response

In a statement, the Los Angeles Unified School District said, “The student is safe and has been reunited with the family. Thanks to the support and work of school staff, the Los Angeles School Police Department, and the Los Angeles Police Department the student was found and our campus is safe and open for instruction.”

Community reaction

Neighbors and community members expressed relief and gratitude for the swift response that brought Junior home unharmed. The incident underscores the importance of vigilance, rapid communication, and cooperation among families, schools, and law‑enforcement agencies when caring for vulnerable individuals.

Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.