Menands, New York — A large-scale search is underway in upstate New York after a 7-year-old nonverbal autistic boy disappeared from a family graduation celebration, prompting an urgent response from local, state, and federal authorities.
Police, volunteers, and community members have spent hours searching neighborhoods, wooded areas, and locations near water as concerns continue to grow for Harbe Nagi, who was last seen Sunday afternoon in the village of Menands, just north of Albany.
Officials say the child remains missing, and his family is pleading for the public’s help.
Boy Reportedly Wandered Away During Family Celebration
According to the Menands Police Department, Harbe was last seen at approximately 4:10 p.m. Sunday while attending a graduation party with family members.
Investigators believe the child may have wandered away from the gathering.
Police said Harbe is nonverbal, has autism, primarily speaks Arabic, and does not live in the neighborhood where he disappeared, making the search even more challenging.
Authorities described him as approximately 3 feet 7 inches tall, weighing about 48 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes.
He was last seen wearing a light-colored shirt, dark pants, and no shoes.
Search Focuses on Areas the Child May Be Drawn To
Investigators say Harbe is known to enjoy being outdoors and has previously wandered away from home.
Police also noted that he has a strong interest in water, prompting search teams to carefully examine nearby ponds, streams, and other waterways.
In an effort to attract the child’s attention, authorities have even positioned ice cream trucks throughout the search area.
Officials hope the familiar music may encourage Harbe to come out if he is nearby.
Police are also asking residents to review home security camera footage and inspect backyards, sheds, garages, playgrounds, and other locations where a child might seek shelter or climb.
Family Offers $10,000 Reward
Harbe’s disappearance has drawn attention far beyond New York.
His uncle, Hamtramck, Michigan, Mayor Adam Alharbi, immediately traveled to New York after learning his nephew was missing.
The family has announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to Harbe’s safe return.
Mayor Alharbi said the child has wandered away before but was usually found quickly by family members.
“The child was trying to escape the house,” Alharbi said.
“He has autism. He’s tried to escape the house several times before, but the mom would follow him and get him back into the house.”
The mayor said he immediately booked a flight after receiving the devastating news.
“As soon as I found out, I booked a flight. I haven’t slept yet.”
Community and Multiple Agencies Join Search
The search has expanded significantly as neighbors and volunteers continue assisting law enforcement.
Residents from Menands and surrounding communities have joined officers in checking neighborhoods and nearby properties.
“I opened my garage, went all around my house, you never know, looked everywhere in my backyard. And then after that I went out with the search,” neighbor Heidi Iyok said.
The investigation now includes assistance from:
- New York State Police
- Albany County Sheriff’s Office
- FBI Albany Field Office
Police said they do not currently believe foul play was involved, although investigators continue examining every possibility.
Authorities emphasized that anyone who encounters Harbe should call 911 immediately and avoid sudden movements or loud voices, as the child may become frightened or overwhelmed.
As the search enters another day, family members remain hopeful that community support and continued search efforts will bring Harbe home safely.
What message of support would you like to share with Harbe’s family during this difficult time? If you live in the area, authorities encourage everyone to remain alert and immediately report any possible sightings to 911.