The most important change for Lincoln families: the 12-year-old boy reported missing June 26 has been located and is in protective custody while authorities arrange his return to family members. A 49-year-old woman has been arrested in connection with the case.
How the case unfolded
The Lincoln Police Department received the missing-person report from the boy's mother on June 26, saying the child had left for a friend's home and did not return. Investigators spoke with witnesses and learned the boy had been seen near the People's City Mission with the friend and the friend's mother.
Authorities say the investigation revealed a woman purchased three Greyhound bus tickets to Texarkana, Texas. On July 9 at about noon, the U.S. Marshals Service, assisted by Texas and Arkansas law enforcement, located the boy, his friend and the friend's mother in Texarkana.
- Victim: 12-year-old Lincoln boy, reported missing June 26
- Arrested: Tracy Riley, 49, arrested in Texarkana
- Charges reported: violating custody and contributing to the delinquency of a minor
“The 12-year-old appeared in good health and was taken into protective custody,” the U.S. Marshals Service said.
Where the case stands now
Riley is being held in Texarkana and is awaiting extradition to Nebraska, officials said. Lincoln Police Department spokespeople said arrangements are being made to reunite the boy with his family.
Lincoln residents may see ongoing coordination between local detectives and federal marshals as the prosecution and extradition process moves forward. The U.S. Marshals Service led the location effort with support from Texas and Arkansas agencies; Lincoln Police handled the original missing-person investigation.
| Key dates | Action |
|---|---|
| June 26 | Missing-person report filed with Lincoln Police Department |
| July 9 (noon) | U.S. Marshals locate the boy and make an arrest in Texarkana |
Authorities have not released additional details about the circumstances that led to the travel to Texas or the identities of the friend and the friend’s mother beyond their presence in Texarkana. The Lincoln Police Department referred questions about custody arrangements and next procedural steps to the agencies leading the extradition and protective custody efforts.
Lincoln families concerned about missing-child resources can contact the Lincoln Police Department for guidance on reporting and available supports. The department continues to work with federal and out-of-state partners on cases involving Lincoln residents who travel or are taken across state lines.
