GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Authorities continue their search to locate 16-year-old Cortez McConer who went missing from the Grand Rapids area more than three weeks ago.
The teen was last seen Oct. 28, and his last confirmed location was west of Courtland Drive NE and Kies Street NE in Rockford.
At that time, Cortez and two friends fled from Grand Rapids police near McDonald’s on East Division Avenue. Officers located the friends shortly after, but police say the friends wouldn’t confirm the teen was with them.
Police first made the public aware of Cortez’s disappearance on Nov. 2 with additional details released this week.
Grand Rapids police Chief Eric Winstrom confirmed the missing teen is not wanted for any wrongdoing.
“It is possible that Cortez is actively hiding, believing he is in trouble with the police,” Winstrom said in a statement on Monday, Nov. 18. “He may be avoiding searchers. I want to be clear that our only interest is in bringing Cortez home safely.”
The Grand Rapids Police Department released a map detailing its search efforts to locate 16-year-old Cortez McConer who was last seen fleeing from officers on Oct. 28. (Photo provided by Grand Rapids Police Department)Photo provided by Grand Rapids Police Department
Police have utilized several search tools to find Cortez in recent weeks. Police K9s, drones and a Michigan State Police helicopter are among the resources being used.
Searches are continuing in the dense wooded areas near Cortez’s last known location and are expanding out from there, police said. Volunteer searches in the area are also being held.
Investigators are asking the public to check near sheds and covered pools, hot tubs or any other outbuildings where someone might hide.
“If you think you see Cortez, we ask that if you are able, take a video or photo and submit that to police,” Winstrom said. “We will continue our efforts to bring this young man home.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Grand Rapids Police Department at 616-456-3380 or tips can be sent anonymously through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345.
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