On June 12, 2023, 13-year-old James Yoblonski disappeared from his home in Reedsburg, Wisconsin. He was last seen in the early morning hours, around 1:00 a.m., when he took the family van and his father's cell phone. He was reported missing later that morning at 9:00 a.m. Investigations later revealed that he had driven around for several hours, making two stops at his father's business in Wisconsin Dells.
The family van was later found abandoned along the westbound lane of Highway 12, near the Baraboo Bluffs and close to Devil's Lake State Park. This discovery set off an intensive search for the young teen in a remote and rugged area.
The search for James uncovered what appeared to be a makeshift campsite across the highway from the abandoned van, up a steep hill. At this site, authorities found James's father's cell phone and some of his personal belongings. Further investigation in Devil's Lake State Park revealed a second campsite believed to be his, containing a jug of water, socks, and a knife sheath. It was also discovered that two wilderness survival guides and a handgun were missing from the family home. These findings led investigators to believe that James might be attempting to live off the land as a survivalist. Searches on electronic devices he had access to showed that in the months leading up to his disappearance, he had looked up information on how to leave the state. The initial intensive ground search for James lasted for about four days before transitioning to patrol searches, with law enforcement advising the public not to search on their own due to the dangerous terrain.
As the investigation continued, the FBI became involved, conducting polygraph tests with family members and potential witnesses. James's father, William Yoblonski, has been vocal in his belief that his son may have been lured away, finding it uncharacteristic of him to leave without a word, especially with a planned camping, hunting, and fishing trip on the horizon. He has offered a $10,000 reward for information that leads to his son's return. The case has garnered significant attention, with law enforcement urging hunters and the public to remain vigilant for any signs of James, particularly in the areas around Devil's Lake and Baxter's Hollow. The disappearance of James Yoblonski is an ongoing case characterized by the initial belief he was attempting to survive in the wilderness, a theory supported by the discovery of campsites and missing survival gear, yet complicated by his father's concerns of foul play and web searches indicating a possible plan to leave the state. The case remains unsolved, leaving his family with unanswered questions and a plea for his safe return.Last Seen: Jun 12, 2023
