3-year-old boy vanished mysteriously from grandma's backyard in Craven County.

5years ago

Craven County news, North Carolina news.

Authorities and hundreds of volunteers joined forces in the search for a 3-year-old North Carolina boy last seen playing near his grandmother's home.

Casey Hathaway went missing after playing in the yard of his grandmother’s home along with two other children, according to the FBI Charlotte office, which is involved with the case.

the boy's grandmother called 911 after the other children returned inside without him, authorities said.

The call was placed after a 45-minute search in the woods turned up no sign of the boy.

Craven County Sheriff Chip Hughes said they’re considering all possibilities for the boy’s disappearance, including “abduction or kidnapping.”

It has now been over 48 hours since Casey disappeared into the woods wearing just a coat and sweatpants.

Craven County Sheriff Chip Hughes said Wednesday afternoon that the FBI, state investigators and the U.S. Marines Corps from nearby bases at Camp Lejeune and Cherry Point are part of the effort to find Hathaway.

Locals had been working side-by-side with law enforcement prior to Thursday, with hundreds turning out despite the inclement weather and ready to head back out on Thursday.

They are currently being held at a nearby church until it is safe for them to join the crews in the woods.

Deputies are asking residents living in the area are to check storage sheds, vehicles, and their property for the child.