ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) — The Albany Police Department (APD) is investigating the disappearance of 17-year-old Demetrius Hightower.

According to his mother, Hightower was last seen two weeks ago before friends came to pick him up from home. He hasn’t been seen since, and his family says his absence is out of character and suspicious. They’re asking anyone with information to please come forward.

“He’s a minor. He’s a child. He has a family. He has friends. We love him, and we miss him,” said Tanderkia Hightower, his mother. “The right thing to do is to get in contact with either his parents or APD. If anybody sees him, comes across him or knows anything, the right thing to do is to let us know so we can put an end to all of this. Baby, I love you, and we miss you, and we need you to come home.”

APD released a statement on Wednesday, Dec. 31 about the case. Read it in full here:

Interviews with the two juveniles last seen with Hightower are pending permission from a guardian. Police said there is no suspected foul play in Hightower’s disappearance at this time.

Investigators and Community Service Officers have conducted searches of the last known area where Hightower was seen. Police are also monitoring social media and following up on tips as they are received.

Regarding reports of a vehicle crash, police said they are unable to release additional details due to the ongoing investigation. Information will be shared when it becomes appropriate and does not compromise the investigation.

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