Did This Texas Teen Actually Go Missing 8 Years Ago?
Back in 2015, Houston teenager Rudolph "Rudy" Farias was reported missing. His mother told authorities that he never came home after from walking his dogs. In 2015, Farias' mother informed investigators that her son suffered from depression and Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She said it was brought on by his brother losing his life in a motorcycle accident in 2011.
But last week, a 25-year-old man was found sleeping outside of a church. When police arrived, they found a man who had an undisclosed item with him that included a family member's identification. From there, authorities were able to connect the man to his mother, Janie Santana. The man was identified as Rudy Farias.
Someone being found 8 years after they went missing as a teenager is truly a miracle. However, many online have been quick to point out some extremely odd details with this case. Especially after neighbors have come out to say that they never knew Farias was missing, because he's been visiting them for years.
Kisha Ross told KTRK-TV that she was shocked to find out Farias was "missing", because he has been visiting their home regularly. A home that KTRK says is located on the same street as Farias' mother. Ross told the TV station:
"He used to come in my garage, chill with my cousin, son, and daughter...That boy has never been missing."
Ross' cousin Broderick Conley also stated that he would hang out with Farias. They said they knew him as "Dolph", taken from his name Rudolph. According to their family, Farias would come over often, but hadn't been seen for a couple of weeks before this story broke.
After it was announced that Farias was identified as the man outside the church, the Texas Center for Missing put out a statement on behalf of his family:
"We want to thank the media and public for all their support. My son Rudy Farias IV was found on Thursday, June 29, after being missing for eight years. Currently, we do not have any additional information on Rudy's case. What we do know is at the time of his recovery, a good Samaritan located him unresponsive and immediately called police and 911. My son Rudy is receiving the care he needs to overcome his trauma, but at this time, he is nonverbal and not able to communicate with us. We are asking for privacy during this difficult time but will share more details as Rudy continues to heal."
Authorities say when Farias was discovered outside the church, he refused medical treatment. He was released to his mother's care. She tells the local TV stations that she personally took him to the hospital for treatment.