The boy, named Ethan, was soon identified by his tearful aunt, who rushed to the station upon seeing his picture online. Her relief was palpable, but her revelations about Ethan’s recent past left officers in disbelief.
Ethan had been living in a troubled household. His parents, both struggling with severe addiction, were unable to provide a stable environment for him. The aunt explained that she had been trying to gain custody of Ethan for months. She had become increasingly concerned about his well-being but had been met with resistance from his parents. The toddler’s appearance on the highway was a dire culmination of neglect.
According to the aunt, Ethan’s parents often left him unattended for long periods, sometimes not returning home for days. This time, they had gone on a bender, leaving the child to fend for himself. The aunt believed that Ethan had likely wandered out of desperation, searching for food or someone to care for him.
