Search continues for 13-year-old boy who disappeared into river

24 October 2023 , 10:06

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Kavion is a keen basketball player (Image: CBS)

The family of a missing teenager have appealed to the public for help after he disappeared into a river.

Kavion Godfrey, 13 years old, was last seen on Friday afternoon (Oct 20) but following a three day search in the river the New York Police Department (NYPD) have not yet been able to find him. His hugely concerned family have been spending time near the river keeping a watchful eye out for the teen in New York State.

"To whomever was out here, come forward, please. Talk to us so we can get an understanding. Please, that's all we ask," said Kavion’s mother, Laquana Badger. His parents are asking anyone with information to step forward as they desperately try to cling on to hope.

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The NYPD Harbour Unit was still searching for the boy on Monday night, but Ms Badger was frightened for her son. “Help us find my son,” she added.

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Kavion's family are pleading for information from the public (CBS)

Ms Badger said Kavion last called her on Friday afternoon to ask if he could head to East River Park for a soccer game, with his coach and a bunch of friends, CBS reported. But it wasn’t long after this phone call that she received another call from Kavion’s coach - saying the teen had gone missing.

"I got here, his bag is here, his clothes, his phone," Ms Badger said. "It has been a roller coaster, to say the least. I want him to be safe. I want to find him." Police believe the missing boy entered the river at East River Park near Houston Street - prompting them to conduct a deep search of both the ground and the water.

Police are still searching in the East River, where Kavion is believed to have gone missing (CBS)

Kavion apparently loves basketball, his family and his friends. "My son is so bright. He was always happy y'all. He made me happy," Ms Badger said. "I will do whatever it takes [to get him home]. I will stay here for as long as it takes. I will be here.”

The NYPD are continuing the search today (Tuesday October 24).

Alex Croft