A non-verbal 6-year-old child with autism who was reported missing Sunday afternoon in Madison Heights was found later that night inside a nearby unlocked home, police said. The child had walked into the residence through an unlocked door while the homeowners were away, and when they returned late Sunday night, they found him taking a shower and immediately contacted authorities.
Police said the child, identified as Jonathan Skattebo, was last seen around 3:30 p.m. on Feb. 1 near the intersection of Hales Street and Parliament Avenue. He was later located inside a home approximately one block from where he was last seen and was taken to a local hospital for a precautionary medical evaluation.
Autism adds urgency to missing child cases
Police said the child’s autism diagnosis heightened concerns during the search, as children on the autism spectrum are known to face increased risks when they go missing, particularly due to wandering behaviors and communication challenges.
A widely cited study published in the journal Pediatrics found that nearly half of children with autism have attempted to wander or leave a safe environment at least once, and many are unable to provide identifying information or respond when their name is called, which can complicate search efforts and increase urgency.
Madison Heights, located in southeastern Oakland County, is made up largely of residential neighborhoods with closely spaced homes, apartment complexes, and side streets that connect quickly to major roadways. The area near Hales Street, where the child was last seen, sits close to heavily traveled corridors such as 12 Mile and Dequindre roads, adding to safety concerns when a child wanders from home.
Families in Madison Heights and across Oakland County have access to autism-focused support services through regional organizations, including therapy providers, advocacy groups, and community-based programs designed to assist children with autism and their caregivers.
Local agencies often encourage families of children with special needs to share safety plans with neighbors and first responders, particularly in communities where homes are close together and access points are numerous.
Investigation still ongoing
Madison Heights police have not released additional details following the child’s recovery, such as how long he may have been inside the unlocked home or what led him to enter the residence. Authorities have also not indicated whether the incident will prompt further review or follow-up.
All we know is that the police have confirmed the child was found safe and taken to a hospital for a precautionary evaluation, and no further updates have been provided.