HOUSTON, TX (October 14, 2025) — Emmanuel Gonzalez Garcia, a 15-year-old Houston teen with autism, vanished without a trace on October 7, 2025. His mother, who had been selling fruit with him on the northwest side of the city, reported that Emmanuel went to the restroom but never returned. For several days, his family desperately searched for him, but the mystery surrounding his disappearance took a heartbreaking turn when he was found in immigration custody.
What Happened to Emmanuel Gonzalez Garcia?
Emmanuel was last seen helping his mother on the afternoon of October 7, but after stepping away to use the restroom, he disappeared. His family’s frantic search led to a chilling discovery when it was revealed that he was not with his family or friends. Instead, Emmanuel had been found in immigration custody, where he reportedly told officers that he was homeless and from another country.
Due to his autism and limited cognitive abilities, Emmanuel’s family believes he may have had difficulty explaining who he was or where he belonged. FIEL Houston, an immigrant-rights organization, has been actively advocating for Emmanuel’s release and his safe return to his family.
The Unthinkable Turn: Emmanuel’s Emergency Surgery
Just as the Gonzalez Garcia family began to breathe a sigh of relief knowing Emmanuel had been found, the situation took a further traumatic turn. Emmanuel was hospitalized for appendicitis and rushed into emergency surgery on October 13 at Texas Children’s Hospital. His mother, who had been desperate to see her son after days of uncertainty, was finally able to reunite with him at the hospital.
His mother, understandably devastated by the sequence of events, has had to navigate the overwhelming emotions of both finding her son in an immigration facility and now fearing for his health in the hospital.
The Family’s Struggle and Advocacy
Throughout this ordeal, FIEL Houston has continued to fight for Emmanuel’s release and reunification with his family. The organization has been vocal about the trauma the Gonzalez Garcia family has faced and the complications of navigating the immigration system, particularly for a minor with special needs.
The family is seeking answers regarding why Emmanuel, who has the cognitive ability of a 4- or 5-year-old, was unable to communicate his identity or his situation to authorities. Emmanuel’s case has raised serious questions about the handling of vulnerable minors by immigration authorities.
Public Reactions and Support
The Gonzalez Garcia family has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from the community and advocacy groups. People from all walks of life have joined the call for Emmanuel’s release and proper care, while keeping the family in their thoughts and prayers as they deal with the emotional and physical toll of the past week.
Emmanuel’s mother, who has spoken publicly about her relief at finding her son, has also acknowledged the emotional impact of the situation. “It’s been a nightmare. I’m so grateful he’s alive, but I still don’t have my son back,” she said in a statement.
What’s Next?
Emmanuel Gonzalez Garcia’s case is still unfolding. His family, along with FIEL Houston, is urging authorities to speed up the process of releasing him from custody and ensuring he receives the proper care and support. His health is currently the family’s primary concern as they focus on his recovery from surgery and his eventual reunification with his loved ones.
The situation is far from over, but with continued advocacy and support from the community, Emmanuel’s family is hopeful for a better future for their son.
Closing Line
This story may be updated as more information becomes available. Please continue to keep Emmanuel and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.
The post 15-Year-Old Emmanuel Gonzalez Garcia Missing and Found in Immigration Custody, Now Hospitalized for Surgery first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
