Search launched for boy, 10, missing since Tuesday as police warn of 'growing concern for his welfare'

From the Newshound archive · first published 19 September 2026.

Hertfordshire Police have confirmed that Dougie, 10, has been found and is now with officers, ending a two-day search that gripped the public amid raw grief over another missing child. The boy had vanished from Hoddesdon on Tuesday evening, prompting an urgent appeal. Police said they were growing "increasingly concerned" for his welfare before confirming his safe location. Officers thanked the public for sharing their appeals.

The search unfolded days after the body of three-year-old Noah Woods was found in Decoy Pond in Brantham, Suffolk, following a massive community hunt.

Police acknowledged public anxiety linked to Noah's case, saying 'every missing person investigation is different and enquiries are tailored to the individual circumstances.'

Dougie was described as short and stocky with dark brown hair, and known for often wearing gold jewellery.