TEXARKANA, Ark.— An 8-year-old child who was reported missing Tuesday afternoon was found safe within minutes thanks to the quick response of a Texarkana Arkansas Police Department officer, according to the department.
Police said the child was reported missing at approximately 4:40 p.m. July 21 after disappearing from a home in the 700 block of Artisan Street.
According to the department, officers, detectives and all available personnel immediately responded and began searching the surrounding area.
The department said it also prepared to activate HyperReach
The department said it also prepared to activate HyperReach, the city’s upgraded emergency phone and text notification system, as part of its rapid response protocol. Police said HyperReach replaces the former CodeRED system and is designed to quickly notify residents of emergencies, hazards and other public safety threats through phone calls, text messages and emails. The system also includes accessibility options for people who are hearing impaired and allows residents to receive alerts specific to their neighborhoods by registering their street address.
Before the emergency alert was issued, Officer Montoya located the child and the child’s dog safely at a local business, according to police.
The department said the child was reunited with family members without injury.
The Texarkana Arkansas Police Department thanked all officers who assisted in the search and specifically commended Officer Montoya for quickly locating the child.
Police encouraged residents to enroll in the HyperReach emergency alert system to receive timely notifications during critical incidents.
All information is according to the Texarkana Arkansas Police Department.