Summary based on the NamUs case record (MP144911)
In Jacksonville, Florida, the family of 14-year-old Male Leland Scales, also known as Mikey, experienced profound distress when he was reported missing on June 3, 2025. The young boy, who is diagnosed with autism, was last seen by his family at his home on Natal Avenue around 11 p.m. the previous night. It was unclear exactly when he left the residence, but early morning sightings placed him on foot between 2:30 a.m. and 3 a.m. on West Beaver Street, carrying an orange and black backpack. The situation grew more urgent as hours passed, prompting the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office to seek public assistance, highlighting the particular vulnerability related to his autism.
Concern for Leland's safety intensified, leading to the activation of a Florida Missing Child Alert. Leland was described as a white male, 5 feet 4 inches tall, weighing about 150 pounds, with blonde hair and blue eyes.
When he disappeared, he was wearing a black Spider-Man t-shirt and black basketball shorts. Law enforcement received a significant update when Leland was spotted again at 11 a.m., this time riding a dark-colored bicycle on 103rd Street near Jammes Road, a considerable distance from his home. This information helped narrow the search area and gave hope to those anxiously awaiting news.
The community's collective apprehension turned to relief when the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office announced that Leland had been found safe on the afternoon of June 3, 2025. The Florida Missing Child Alert was subsequently canceled. While the specific details surrounding his discovery and the time he was missing were not extensively publicized, the primary focus remained on his safe return. The case of Leland Scales underscores the critical role of community vigilance and rapid law enforcement response in resolving missing persons cases, especially those involving vulnerable individuals, bringing a frightening chapter to a thankful close for his family and community.Last Seen: Jun 2, 2025
