The Springfield Police Department has gone out to the public via social media in an attempt to locate 15-year-old Ryan DeLeon-Velasquez, who has been reported as a runaway. According to a Facebook post made by the department, Ryan was last known to be planning a trip to Chicago but may still be in the Connecticut area.
Authorities have released these details in the hopes that people will come forward with any current information about DeLeon-Velasquez’s whereabouts; Ryan left behind a note outlining their intention to travel to Chicago, but it is possible that they are still close to home in Connecticut. The Youth Aid Bureau, which is leading the search, invites anyone with information on Ryan’s location to contact detectives or the Springfield Police Department’s non-emergency number.
The Springfield Police Department appreciates the need for community involvement in such circumstances, especially when a young person’s safety and well-being are at issue. The police specifically requested “your assistance” in their email, reminding us of our shared responsibility for our youth.
Those with information about Ryan DeLeon-Velasquez are urged to contact Springfield Police Department detectives at 413-787-6360; they are also introducing a non-emergency number, 413-787-6300, for those who can provide any leads without requiring immediate police engagement; however, the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, as with any missing child case, community vigilance can be instrumental in a safe return.
