Parents Arrested Amid Ongoing Search for Missing Oklahoma Boy

Authorities have detained the mother and stepfather of a missing 12-year-old boy from Oklahoma as they continue the search for the child, who disappeared over a week ago.

The boy, referred to as Ryan, RJ, or Ryker, was last observed on January 2nd in Chickasha, and his disappearance is being treated as suspicious by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI). The local police department has issued an alert indicating he is an endangered missing person.

With the involvement of state investigators in the search, Ryan’s mother, Kimberly Cole, and stepfather, George Cole, were arrested late Wednesday evening. They face accusations of child abuse, sexual abuse, and conspiracy.

Speaking during a press briefing, OSBI spokesman Hunter McKee disclosed that evidence suggested the boy suffered harm while under the care of these parents. Additionally, police executed search warrants prior to making the arrests.

Though the details of the allegations remain largely undisclosed, McKee emphasized that the child’s living environment was unsafe. The couple is still in custody at the Caddo County Jail, although formal charges have yet to be filed.

Active Search and Community Involvement

The search for Ryan remains a top priority, with a $5,000 reward for any information that could lead to his safe return. Authorities have deployed drones and tracking dogs and are focusing their efforts in a rural area spanning Caddo and Grady counties.

Despite many leads, Ryan has not yet been located, as stated in a Thursday briefing. Officials are hopeful that he remains alive, motivating their exhaustive search efforts.

Ryan had gone missing before under unclear circumstances, which are also subject to investigation.

Community and Official Responses

Officials are coordinating with the state’s human services to ensure Ryan’s safety once found. Chickasha Police Chief Goebel Music expressed the overwhelming desire to see Ryan and ensure his wellbeing in the wake of recent findings.

Kimberly Cole, prior to her arrest, expressed gratitude to those assisting in the search and voiced a heartfelt plea for her child’s safe return.

Ryan was last confirmed seen in Chickasha, near the intersection of Fourth Street and Grand Avenue, around 11:20 p.m. on January 2. Described as 4 feet 11 inches tall and weighing 85 pounds, he was wearing a red and black plaid shirt, dark jeans, and brown steel-toe boots. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the OSBI tip line at 800-522-8017.