5 PM January 7, 2022 Update: Amari Gabriel Christiansen was located within the search area, just a block from his residence.
At approximately 4:30 PM January 7, Jacksonville Public Safety officials reported Amari had been located and appeared to be in good health.
From the preliminary interview with Amari, he told police he was hiding under a house and fell asleep, but came out because he was hungry. He walked up to a neighbor who alerted officers. He was medically evaluated by EMS as a precaution.
“The investigation is ongoing to determine Amari’s exact movements over the last 24 hours” said Deputy Chief Ashley Weaver, JPD Investigative Services Deputy Chief.
“In the last 24 hours, more than 100 officers and public safety professionals from local, state and federal agencies have worked tirelessly to locate Amari Gabriel Christiansen,” said Chief Mike Yaniero, Director of Public Safety. “We are extremely grateful for their efforts that elated that there was a positive outcome in this case. The outpouring of support in our local community by groups, churches, volunteers, neighbors and others is a testament to the great citizens of this community. We truly are One City.”
The investigation is open and ongoing and additional information will be released when we are able to do so.