The prosecutor also thanked the press for relaying the disappearance notice. He emphasized “the importance of the mobilization of Child Focus, but also of several police zones, the federal police, schools, citizens and civil protection” to achieve this result.
The 9-year-old boy left his school located in Brugelette (Hainaut), on foot, on Tuesday around 3:00 p.m. He had not been seen since. Child Focus described this disappearance as worrying: “He spent the night alone at 9 years old and he had difficulty expressing himself, which worried us greatly. Our role is to provide support to the family, in this case the parents, then to collaborate with the police to the distribution of the notice Fortunately, we were able to count on strong mobilization and the solidarity of people to distribute the wanted notice. “, explains Selyna Ayuso, spokesperson for the foundation which helps find missing people.
Mathias has difficulty expressing himself because he has severe autistic disorders. According to our information, he has no concept of danger, for example when crossing the road. Mathias is also described as being in his bubble, fascinated by cartoons and screens like TV and tablet. He was not at all used to being alone and had no history of running away.
Her school, the Sainte Gertrude Institute, also specified that staff members immediately mobilized to search the buildings and surrounding areas. “After 30 minutes of fruitless searching, the police were called. Increasingly significant resources were deployed: helicopter, drone, dogs, etc. The excavations were organized with the contribution of around sixty volunteers including members of the staff of the schools and the Sainte-Gertrude center..”
This Wednesday morning, additional resources were provided and psychological help is available for children and staff members.