Two separate missing persons cases have captured the attention of communities in the United States, prompting extensive search efforts and investigation by authorities.

In the first case, three-year-old Elijah Vue has been missing for over a month from Two Rivers, Wisconsin. The situation surrounding his disappearance became more alarming following revelations about the disciplinary methods used by his mother, Katrina Baur, and her boyfriend, Jesse Vang. Elijah was reportedly sent to live with Vang for disciplinary reasons. Messages between Baur and Vang suggested severe disciplinary tactics, including making the boy fear Vang. Disturbing images of Elijah showing bruises and in distress have emerged. Both Baur and Vang have been arrested on child neglect charges, and local law enforcement, volunteers, the FBI, and Manitowoc County Crime Stoppers are involved in the search for Elijah, with rewards offered for information leading to his whereabouts.

In the second case, 22-year-old University of Missouri student Riley Strain has been missing since 8 March, after last being seen in downtown Nashville, Tennessee. Strain was kicked out of a bar that night, and a confusing text message saying “good lops” was the last known communication from him. His phone was subsequently deactivated. The search efforts have been concentrated near the Cheatham Lock and Dam in Ashland City, with assistance from the United Cajun Navy deploying hovercrafts and volunteers. Although Strain’s bank card was found near the Cumberland River, a body spotted in the river was confirmed not to be his. The family and search teams remain hopeful for Strain’s safe return, emphasizing a coordinated search effort despite concerns raised about the initial police response.

Both cases have sparked considerable concern within their respective communities and beyond, as ongoing search and investigation efforts continue to seek the safe return of Elijah Vue and Riley Strain.