An 11-year-old boy named Jacob Pritchett has been missing for nearly two months, and the case has taken a deeply unsettling turn — his own mother reportedly told investigators that Jacob “does not exist.” Police describe the situation as one of the most baffling and disturbing missing child cases they’ve ever encountered.
Authorities first became aware of Jacob’s disappearance after a concerned neighbor reported not seeing the boy for several weeks. “It just didn’t make sense,” the neighbor said. “He used to play outside almost every day, and suddenly he was just gone.”
When officers arrived at the family’s residence for a welfare check, the mother allegedly gave confusing and contradictory statements. According to police sources, she initially denied ever having a child, claiming that people were “mistaken” and that Jacob was a “made-up name.” Officers, however, found items consistent with a young child living in the home — including clothing, toys, and school supplies — further deepening the mystery.
Detective Mark Reynolds of the San Antonio Police Department told reporters that the investigation has since expanded nationwide. “We have records that show an 11-year-old named Jacob was enrolled in school here,” Reynolds said. “Teachers confirmed his attendance through early August. We’re treating this as a serious missing person case until proven otherwise.”
Authorities have released two images — one of Jacob and another of his mother — asking the public for any information that could help locate the missing child. “Our priority is finding Jacob and ensuring his safety,” Chief Reynolds emphasized. “We urge anyone who might have seen or interacted with this family in recent months to come forward.”
The community’s reaction has been one of shock and disbelief. “It’s heartbreaking,” said one local parent. “To hear that a mother is denying her own child even existed… something is very wrong here.”
Social services have since become involved, working alongside police to investigate the mother’s mental and emotional state. According to unconfirmed reports, the mother may have been dealing with psychological distress or delusions that contributed to her statements. “We can’t speculate about her condition,” officials said, “but it’s clear that something is deeply troubling in this case.”
Volunteers have already begun organizing search efforts around nearby wooded areas, lakes, and parks. Police have also requested access to phone records, online accounts, and surveillance footage that could provide clues about Jacob’s last known whereabouts.
Meanwhile, the case has ignited a wider discussion about the importance of community vigilance and mental health awareness. Experts stress that neighbors, teachers, and relatives often play crucial roles in identifying early signs of neglect or distress. “If something feels off, report it,” child safety advocate Dana Holloway said. “You never know when a simple call could save a life.”
As of now, Jacob remains missing, and his mother has been taken into custody for questioning. The search continues — and police are urging anyone with information to contact the San Antonio Police Department immediately.
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