Memphis, Tennessee, January 6, 2026
The Memphis Police Department is on the lookout for a 12-year-old boy reported missing. Last seen wearing a red hoodie and black jeans, the boy was last spotted on Poplar Avenue. The MPD has issued a City Watch alert, urging the community to assist in locating him. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Missing Persons Bureau or Crime Stoppers. Community involvement is vital in ensuring the safe return of missing children.
Memphis Police Search for Missing 12-Year-Old Boy
Memphis, Tennessee – The Memphis Police Department (MPD) is actively searching for a 12-year-old boy who was reported missing on January 4, 2026. The child was last seen in the 3000 block of Poplar Avenue at approximately 3:00 PM. He is described as a Black male, 5 feet tall, weighing 90 pounds, with short black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a red hoodie, black jeans, and white sneakers.
MPD has issued a City Watch alert to solicit assistance from the public in locating the missing child. The department is urging anyone with information to contact the MPD’s Missing Persons Bureau at 901-636-4479 or Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH (2274). Additionally, tips can be submitted anonymously through the Crime Stoppers website.
In accordance with MPD policy, the department has entered the missing child’s information into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database within two hours of the initial report. This is standard procedure for missing juveniles under the age of 21. The department is also coordinating with local schools and community organizations to gather any additional information that may assist in the search.
The MPD emphasizes the importance of community involvement in locating missing children and encourages residents to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information related to the case. The department is committed to ensuring the safe return of the missing child and is utilizing all available resources to locate him as quickly as possible.
Background on MPD’s Missing Persons Protocol
The Memphis Police Department has established protocols for handling missing persons cases, particularly those involving juveniles. When a child is reported missing, officers are required to:
- Obtain detailed information about the missing child, including physical description, clothing, and circumstances of disappearance.
- Enter the child’s information into the NCIC database within two hours of the initial report.
- Issue a City Watch alert to solicit public assistance in locating the child.
- Coordinate with local schools and community organizations to gather additional information.
- Maintain open communication with the public and provide updates as necessary.
These measures are designed to ensure a swift and coordinated response to missing persons cases, with the primary goal of ensuring the safety and well-being of the missing individual.
Recent Efforts in Locating Missing Children in Memphis
In recent months, the Memphis Safe Task Force, a collaborative effort between the MPD and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), has been instrumental in locating missing children. As of November 8, 2025, the task force had located and safely returned 101 missing children. The task force continues to work diligently to address cases of missing and endangered children in the Memphis area.
Community involvement plays a crucial role in the success of these efforts. Residents are encouraged to report any information related to missing children to the appropriate authorities to assist in their safe return.
Weather Conditions in Memphis
As of January 6, 2026, the weather in Memphis is cloudy with a temperature of 56°F (14°C). The forecast for the day includes breezy conditions in the morning, with intervals of clouds and sunshine, and a high of 69°F (20°C). Residents are advised to stay updated on weather conditions, as they may impact search efforts.
Key Features of the Missing Child Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Age of Missing Child | 12 years old |
| Last Seen Location | 3000 block of Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN |
| Time Last Seen | Approximately 3:00 PM on January 4, 2026 |
| Physical Description | Black male, 5 feet tall, 90 pounds, short black hair, brown eyes |
| Clothing Last Seen Wearing | Red hoodie, black jeans, white sneakers |
| Issued Alert | City Watch alert |
| Contact Information for Tips | MPD Missing Persons Bureau: 901-636-4479; Crime Stoppers: 901-528-CASH (2274) |
| Weather Conditions | Cloudy, 56°F (14°C), breezy with intervals of clouds and sunshine, high of 69°F (20°C) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do if I have information about the missing child?
If you have any information regarding the missing child, please contact the Memphis Police Department’s Missing Persons Bureau at 901-636-4479 or Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH (2274). Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Crime Stoppers website.
How can I stay updated on the search for the missing child?
For updates on the search, monitor official communications from the Memphis Police Department and local news outlets. The MPD will provide information as it becomes available.
What is a City Watch alert?
A City Watch alert is a notification issued by the Memphis Police Department to solicit public assistance in locating missing persons. It is part of the department’s protocol to engage the community in search efforts.
How can I assist in locating missing children in my community?
Stay vigilant and report any information related to missing children to the appropriate authorities. Familiarize yourself with the physical descriptions and circumstances of missing individuals to aid in their identification.
What are the procedures for handling missing persons cases in Memphis?
The Memphis Police Department follows established protocols for missing persons cases, including obtaining detailed information about the missing individual, entering their information into the NCIC database, issuing City Watch alerts, and coordinating with local schools and community organizations.
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Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
