West Des Moines Missing 13-Year-Old Found Safe After 10-Hour Search
West Des Moines police confirmed on May 9, 2026, that 13-year-old Carlos Lindberg, who had gone missing earlier that day, was safely reunited with his family after a 10-hour search effort. The incident, which initially sparked concern in the community, concluded without further incident, according to a statement from the West Des Moines Police Department.
Details of the Disappearance
Lindberg was last seen around 5:30 p.m. On May 9 in the 2300 block of Pleasant Street in West Des Moines. Authorities described him as a white male with brown hair and eyes, approximately 5 feet tall and weighing around 90 pounds. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a blue Under Armour T-shirt, gray shorts, and carrying a black backpack.
West Des Moines Police issued a public appeal for assistance, emphasizing the need for community cooperation to locate the teenager. Residents were urged to contact local authorities if they had any information about his whereabouts.
Police Appeal for Public Assistance
Officers stressed the importance of the public’s role in the search, providing specific details about Lindberg’s appearance and last known location. A police update at 10:52 p.m. Confirmed that Lindberg had been found safe and had been reunited with his family. The department did not release additional details about how he was located or the circumstances surrounding his disappearance.
“We appreciate the community’s support in helping us locate Carlos and ensure his safety,” a police spokesperson said in the statement. “This outcome highlights the value of public collaboration in such cases.”
Resolution and Reunification
The case concluded with Lindberg’s safe return, bringing relief to his family and the broader West Des Moines community. While the exact events leading to his disappearance remain undisclosed, the swift response by local authorities and the public’s engagement were critical to the resolution.
This incident underscores the importance of prompt reporting and community vigilance in missing persons cases. West Des Moines Police continue to encourage residents to remain alert and share information that could aid in similar situations.