UPDATE (November 12, 2024): The body of Joshua James McCoy was discovered by searchers about 1.5 miles from the child’s home. Updated story here.

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Original story:

HAUSER, Ore. – A 5-year-old Hauser boy remains missing and the investigation is ongoing; However, according to the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, clues have been found.

Sheriff Gabe Fabrizio says there were discarded wrappers and more in the area where Joshua James McCoy was last seen.

“The searchers did find a footprint near the house. They will definitely use that as a focal point when searching. It hasn’t led to the missing child yet…but it’s on the map and it’s something we’re keeping in mind,” Fabrizio said.

Nearly a hundred people searched for McCoy on Tuesday, including the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and local fire departments.

Support from search and rescue teams, K9s, drones, overhead support, deputies, detectives, local officials and state and federal agencies are all working together to locate McCoy.

As authorities continue their search, police are asking the public to avoid the area while it is investigated. Fabrizio says the reason for this is that it will make the search more difficult and could destroy the evidence in the investigation; however, he does appreciate the community’s willingness to help.

“The community has come together and has been absolutely amazing offering support, food and well wishes,” he said. “We greatly appreciate everyone who supports our efforts and I hope they know that we are truly using every resource possible.”

A local business owner in Hauser, Tishiea Johnson, wanted to give the public an opportunity to assist in the search by providing food to any officers searching for McCoy.

“So many people want to help in this search, but they don’t want people searching up there. They want the professionals up there to search, so I thought this would be a way to get the community involved without hindering the search process. she said.

More than 100 hamburgers, cheeseburgers and potato salad were donated Tuesday by the public and numerous businesses to officials and the market plans to provide food each day of the search.

Johnson said if the public wants to donate, the food items they want are “jerky, crazy and healthier options.” Many cookies and candy have already been donated,” Johnson said.

McCoy went missing in Hauser three days ago and CCSO is asking the public to avoid the area near Stage Road while the investigation takes place.