A community in Randolph County, North Carolina, has been thrust into a state of fear and heartbreak as authorities continue the urgent search for 7-year-old Liam A. King, who was reported missing on Sunday, September 7, 2025, in Asheboro.

The Randolph County Sheriff’s Office says Liam, who has significant cognitive impairments and is non-verbal, was last seen in the area of Forest Hills Drive. According to investigators, he left the area on foot and may run if approached, making the search especially delicate and challenging.

Description of Liam

Authorities have released a detailed description of Liam to help the public identify him quickly. He is a white male, about 3 feet 5 inches tall, weighing around 55 pounds, with shoulder-length brown/black hair and brown eyes.

At the time of his disappearance, Liam was last seen wearing:

• A light blue, black, and gray Nike sweatshirt

• A gray Nike t-shirt

• Black sweatpants

• Blue Sonic socks

• Tan tennis shoes

Officials say his recognizable clothing may be an important detail for anyone who thinks they might spot him.

Vulnerable and At Risk

What makes Liam’s case particularly urgent is his vulnerability. Being non-verbal means he cannot easily ask for help, communicate his needs, or respond to strangers who may try to comfort him. His cognitive challenges and tendency to flee if approached make him especially difficult to safely recover.

“This is a critical situation,” a Sheriff’s Office spokesperson emphasized. “Because of Liam’s unique needs, every minute counts. We are urging residents to remain alert and report any possible sightings immediately.”

Search Efforts Intensify

The Sheriff’s Office has mobilized deputies, search teams, and K-9 units in the Forest Hills Drive area and surrounding neighborhoods. Volunteers and local residents have also joined in, combing wooded areas, checking sheds, and walking trails. Drones and thermal imaging technology may also be deployed as the search expands.

Local authorities have reminded the public that while many want to help, caution is key. Anyone who spots Liam is advised not to chase or attempt to grab him, as he may panic and run further. Instead, they should call 911 immediately and keep eyes on him until trained personnel arrive.

Community Response

The search for Liam has drawn strong emotions from the Asheboro community. Neighbors, parents, and complete strangers have rallied together, sharing Liam’s photo and description across social media in hopes of bringing him home quickly.

For many, the case hits close to home. “It’s every parent’s worst nightmare,” said one local resident helping with the search. “We just want Liam to be found safe.”

Call to Action

Authorities continue to stress the urgency of the situation. If you live in Asheboro or the surrounding areas, please check your property thoroughly — including backyards, sheds, garages, or wooded spaces. Even the smallest detail could be crucial in locating Liam.

Anyone with information about Liam’s whereabouts should call 911 immediately.

As the hours pass, the resolve of law enforcement and community members grows stronger. The entire Randolph County community is united in one hope: that little Liam King is found safe and reunited with his family as soon as possible.