Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and the Atlanta Police Department are reaching out to the public for help in locating a missing 16-year-old boy. Benjamin Braithwaite, the son of a “valued member of the airport community,” was last seen on April 27th, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Details of the Disappearance
Benjamin was last seen around 9:30 p.m. in the 4000 block of Regency Trace SW. He is described as being 6-foot-5, weighing 175 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. At the time of his disappearance, he was reportedly wearing black jogging pants and Nike running shoes. The Atlanta Police Department’s Special Victims Unit is leading the search, but foul play has not yet been indicated.
The airport shared a plea on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing the importance of community support in finding Benjamin and ensuring his safe return home. The post included a flyer with Benjamin’s description and contact information for authorities.
A Community Comes Together
This appeal highlights the power of community collaboration in critical situations. By leveraging the airport’s extensive network and the public’s reach, the hope is to quickly locate Benjamin. Anyone with information is strongly encouraged to contact 911 or the Special Victims Unit directly at 404-546-4260.
Successes in Finding Missing Children
While the search for Benjamin continues, Georgia authorities have recently celebrated successes in other missing children’s cases. “Operation Coast to Coast,” a multi-week effort involving various law enforcement agencies, successfully recovered 11 missing children across Georgia. This operation targeted trafficking corridors and areas where endangered youth are often exploited.
Attorney General Chris Carr praised the Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit’s efforts, emphasizing the state’s commitment to dismantling trafficking networks and holding perpetrators accountable. The strategy has shifted to treating recovered minors as victims, aiming to prevent re-victimization and encourage cooperation in prosecuting those involved in exploitation. Since 2019, this unit has led to the rescue of over 100 children.
Our thoughts are with Benjamin Braithwaite’s family during this difficult time. If you have any information that could help locate him, please contact the authorities immediately. Share this post to help spread the word!
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