Melrose, Massachusetts – A toddler was found wandering alone in Melrose on Sunday afternoon, and police are now urging the public to come forward with any information that might help locate the child’s parents or legal guardians.
According to the Melrose Police Department, the young child, estimated to be around 2 to 3 years old, was discovered near a residential neighbourhood just after 3:00 PM on May 19, 2025. A local resident spotted the child walking alone near the intersection of Lynde Street and Grove Street and immediately alerted authorities.
When officers arrived at the scene, they confirmed that the toddler was indeed unattended and did not appear to be with any parent or caregiver. As a precaution, the child was safely taken into police custody and later evaluated by emergency medical personnel.
Thankfully, the toddler appeared to be physically unharmed and in stable condition. However, officers remain deeply concerned about how the child came to be alone in a public area, and efforts to locate their family are ongoing.
Description of the Toddler
Police have released basic details about the child to help in the identification process. The toddler is described as a white male with short blond hair, wearing a red T-shirt, denim shorts, and blue sneakers at the time he was found.
Due to the child’s age, communication has been limited. He has not been able to clearly state his name, address, or the identity of his parents or guardians.
The Melrose Police Department is now working closely with child welfare agencies and neighboring law enforcement units to explore all possibilities. So far, there have been no reports of a missing child that match the toddler’s description, raising concerns that this incident may involve neglect or a more serious underlying issue.
Public Asked to Help
In a press release issued late Sunday evening, Melrose Police Chief Michael Lyle appealed to the community for assistance.
“We are asking anyone who may recognize this child or has any information about their family to please come forward. Our top priority is to ensure the child’s safety and reunite him with a responsible guardian,” Chief Lyle said.
“If you live in the area and noticed anything unusual, or if you have a neighbor with a child who may match this description, please don’t hesitate to contact us,” he added.
Residents have also been encouraged to check doorbell camera footage, home security systems, or anything that might have captured the child’s movements earlier in the day.
Investigation Underway
As of Monday morning, authorities have not yet located the child’s parents or identified any immediate family members. The toddler remains under the temporary care of state child protective services while investigations continue.
Officers have been going door to door in the neighborhood where the child was found, hoping someone may recognize the child or provide a clue that leads to the parents.
Local hospitals and daycare centers have also been notified, and investigators are reviewing recent calls and welfare checks in the area.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Melrose Police Department at (781) 665-1212. Tips can also be submitted anonymously.
Community Reaction
The incident has shocked many residents in the quiet neighborhood, with locals expressing both concern and support.
“It’s heartbreaking to think a child so young could be out there alone,” said Carol Monroe, a resident who lives a block away from where the child was found. “Thank God someone saw him and called the police.”
Another resident, David Ortiz, shared, “I’ve lived here for over 20 years. This is not something you expect to happen in Melrose. We hope the child is reunited with someone who truly cares.”
Final Words
As the investigation continues, police remain hopeful that someone will come forward soon. In the meantime, authorities are doing everything possible to ensure the child remains safe and supported.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
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