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Authorities and community members are urgently searching for 16-year-old Zaylen Barrack Davis, who was reported missing earlier this week from the Charlottesville area. The teenager’s sudden disappearance has sparked a widespread effort by law enforcement and the public to locate him and bring him safely home to his family.
According to the Virginia Missing Children Clearinghouse, Zaylen was last seen on January 7, 2026 in Charlottesville. He was reported missing when he did not return home or make contact with family members, raising concern among loved ones and prompting an immediate missing person report to be filed with local authorities.
Local police describe Zaylen as a Black male with an afro hairstyle, and he was last seen wearing gray sweat shorts, a black hoodie and black boots. His distinctive appearance is being widely shared across social media platforms and community bulletins as investigators work to gather tips from the public.
The Charlottesville Police Department has launched a thorough investigation into Zaylen’s disappearance, which includes reviewing area surveillance footage, speaking with friends and acquaintances, and conducting neighborhood canvasses.
Officers emphasize that time is critical in missing youth cases, especially in the first 24 to 48 hours, and encourage anyone with information no matter how minor to come forward. Police have not released details regarding the circumstances of his disappearance, and they have not confirmed whether foul play is suspected.
“This is a distressing situation for the family and the entire Charlottesville community,” said a police spokesperson. “We are committed to doing everything we can to find Zaylen. We urge members of the public to remain vigilant and to report any sightings or information that could assist our efforts.”
In response to the alert, local residents and volunteer groups have mobilized to help spread awareness. Flyers featuring Zaylen’s description are being posted at neighborhood centers, schools and businesses, while hundreds of posts on social media platforms have circulated throughout Charlottesville and surrounding areas.
Many community members have also organized small search parties to check parks, wooded areas and other places where the teenager may have been spotted.
The role of public cooperation in missing children cases cannot be overstated, officials say. In addition to physical searches, police are urging residents to review home security cameras, doorbell footage or vehicle dashcam videos recorded around the time Zaylen was last seen.
Even brief glimpses of movement or a vehicle could provide valuable leads in narrowing down the search area and identifying his whereabouts.
Beyond law enforcement efforts, community organizations such as the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) are supporting the case by helping disseminate information and encouraging broader awareness across jurisdictions.
These organizations work closely with local police departments to ensure that missing youth profiles are entered into national databases and shared with appropriate media outlets.
Family members of Zaylen have appealed directly to the public for help, expressing their anguish and hope for his safe return. “We just want our son back,” a relative said. “Every minute that goes by is another minute we worry. Please, if you’ve seen him or know anything, tell someone.”
Anyone who believes they have seen Zaylen or has relevant information is urged to contact the Charlottesville Police Department immediately at their non-emergency number or call 911 if they believe he is in imminent danger.
Law enforcement also encourages anonymous tips through local tip lines or crime stoppers programs, which can be crucial in advancing the investigation.
As the search enters its next critical days, authorities and the community remain united in their hope that Zaylen will be located quickly and returned safely to his family.
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