6-year-old boy found safe 2 days after going missing in rural Kentucky
A search in the woods
Searchers found a muddy footprint that led them to some of Heilman’s clothes: a jacket, pants and a diaper, Hughes said. Volunteers sang “If You’re Happy and You Know It,” one of the boy’s favorite songs, in an effort to draw him out.
Found near his home
Heilman emerged from the brush on Tuesday morning, about a mile and a half from home, Hughes said. His dog was with him, and Hughes indicated the dog was believed to have been alongside the boy when he went missing.
Heilman was naked and had scratches, according to Hughes. Officials said he was recovering from dehydration at an area hospital as of Wednesday.
What officials reported
The search took place in rural eastern Kentucky earlier this week and lasted about two days. The account did not clarify how the boy initially went missing or who notified authorities.
Hughes described Heilman’s habit of exploring outdoors and shared details about the footprint, clothing and volunteers’ efforts. The boy was found safe with his dog.
Key points
- A muddy footprint led searchers to the boy’s jacket, pants and diaper.
- Volunteers sang one of Heilman’s favorite songs to try to draw him out.
- He emerged from brush with his dog and was treated for dehydration.