Cleveland, North Carolina – A 14-year-old boy who had been missing for more than two days in North Carolina has been found alive and safe, though authorities say the investigation into his disappearance is still ongoing. The update was confirmed Saturday by the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office following an intensive multi-day search.
Teen Located After Extensive Search Effort
On January 17, deputies announced that Gideon Ferguson, 14, was located approximately a mile and a half from his home in Cleveland, N.C. He was immediately evaluated by medical personnel after being found. The search involved hundreds of local and state officers, search-and-rescue teams, and assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, according to officials.
Ferguson had been reported missing on January 14 after failing to return home following school.
Timeline of Disappearance
According to authorities, Ferguson was dropped off at his home by his grandmother around 3:30 p.m. on January 14. Roughly an hour later, his mother reported him missing when she was unable to locate him. Investigators confirmed that there were no signs of forced entry at the home.
Officials later determined that Ferguson intentionally left behind his phone and other personal technology, which raised early concerns during the search.
Sheriff Says Teen Actively Avoided Detection
During a press conference, Darren Campbell said evidence suggests the teen deliberately tried to avoid being found.
“There was indications at the home, not of a forced entry, but a person that had left a lot of things such as his phone and other technology that you would assume people would take with them if they left,” Campbell said.
The sheriff added that Ferguson had been hiding in wooded areas outside the original search perimeter and later re-entered the area where authorities were actively searching.
Harsh Weather Conditions Raised Safety Concerns
Officials said the teen spent more than two days outdoors as temperatures dropped to around 15 degrees with wind chill. Campbell noted that Ferguson was still recovering from exposure when he was found, though no life-threatening injuries were reported.
Authorities believe the teen may have left home because he wanted to be alone, though they emphasized that the reason for his actions is still under investigation.
“He just didn’t want to be found,” Campbell said. “There had been some issues that had happened earlier that day … not including the family.”
Investigation Continues Despite Safe Recovery
In a statement shared by the sheriff’s office, officials stressed that the case is not closed. Investigators are still working to determine what Ferguson experienced during the time he was missing and whether anyone else may have been involved.
“Our investigation does not end with his safe recovery,” the statement said. “We will continue to help bring answers to what type of situation this child has encountered since he was discovered missing on January 14, 2026.”
Authorities are asking anyone with information about Ferguson’s whereabouts during the two days he was missing to contact law enforcement. The case details were first reported by NBC News.
The sheriff’s office emphasized that, above all else, the teen’s safe return remains the most important outcome.
