Jose Galindo Vasquez Mendez, an 18-year-old Hispanic male, was last seen in Chattanooga, Tennessee. His journey to the United States from Guatemala was financed by an unknown man who paid approximately $2,000 for his travel expenses. Upon his arrival in the U.S., Jose was held at a center in Texas from February 11th until March 8th. After his release, the Office of Refugee Resettlement arranged for him to live with his brother in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where he arrived on March 8, 2019.
Just four days after arriving at his brother's home at 3901 12th Avenue, Jose disappeared on the morning of March 12, 2019. According to his brother, Jose left without mentioning any plans to leave. The situation grew more concerning when the brother received a text message from an unknown man, claiming that Jose was fine and had chosen to stay with him.
Later, the brother was able to speak with Jose over the phone, who confirmed that he was alright and wished to remain with this other individual.
The brother reported Jose missing on March 15, 2019, to the Chattanooga Police Department, expressing deep concern for his welfare. He feared that Jose might be being forced to work to repay the money spent on his resettlement. The brother also indicated that he believed Jose might be heading to Florida. The Chattanooga Police Department opened an investigation into Jose's disappearance. This case has since been closed as the individual has been located alive.Last Seen: Mar 12, 2019
