GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The family of 16-year-old Cortez McConer Jr. is desperately searching for answers as they await any word of his whereabouts after he went missing nearly a month ago. Cortez, a junior at Godwin Heights High School, was last seen on Oct. 26. His family says the uncertainty surrounding his disappearance has been emotionally overwhelming.
"It’s definitely been hard for me and his close family just to not know where he's at or not know an exact location on where to look. So it’s just very hard on us right now," said a relative of McConer Jr., struggling to cope with the situation.
Cortez had just received his driver’s license and was working to save up for his own car. Known for his love of basketball, his family says it was his dream to play at the next level.
“He’s pretty much been stuck on playing basketball,” said a family member. "Now try to tell him that he has to have a backup plan, but his plan was always to go to the next level playing basketball.
According to the Grand Rapids Police Department, Cortez is not considered to be in trouble. Authorities have made it clear that their primary goal is to bring him home safely, not to arrest him.
“My concern is it’s a 16-year-old boy who initially was fleeing from the police,” said a police spokesperson. “We don’t even think he’s arrestable for anything. We want to make that clear that we are not looking to arrest him.”
Cortez was last seen near the corner of Cortland and Keys in Rockford, close to a McDonald’s. He was reportedly on foot at the time. His two friends, who were with him when he was last seen have been located, but there has been no sign of Cortez since.
Authorities are continuing their search efforts, focusing on wooded areas near the last known location, using K9s, drones and helicopters to assist in the effort. They are urging the public to report any sightings or information that could help bring the teenager home.
Cortez’s father, Cortez McConer Sr., described his son as a respectful, quiet young man with a passion for sports. He recalled their friendly debates over basketball teams, saying, “He does like the Pistons, but I’d say he’s more of a Lakers fan now.”
Mr. McConer thanked the community for their ongoing support and asked for continued help in spreading the word.
“We just want him back safe. Please share and repost any information on his whereabouts,” he said.
As the search continues, authorities remain hopeful that with the public’s help, Cortez will be found and brought home safely.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Grand Rapids Police Department or local authorities.