Rowan County Sheriff’s Office Seeks Public Help to Find Missing 13-Year-Old

ROWAN COUNTY, N.C. — The Rowan County Sheriff’s Office is asking for public assistance in locating a missing 13-year-old runaway.

Investigators reported Johnathan Morales left his home on Sylvan Road on Dec. 26, 2025, and did not return. Deputies took the missing person report on Dec. 29, 2025.

During the investigation, authorities learned Johnathan told a friend he was in the Gastonia area. He did not share a location or who he was with. Investigators said they have not identified anyone in Gastonia connected to him.

The Rowan County Sheriff’s Office said detectives continue active efforts to locate Johnathan. The agency requested support from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and other local law enforcement agencies.

Officials released the most recent photograph available of Johnathan.

Anyone who has seen Johnathan, knows his location, or has related information is urged to contact Detective Bare at 704-216-8700. Tips also go to Rowan County Crime Stoppers at 1-866-639-5245.