On Thursday, Galveston Police released new details from investigators into a tragic mystery regarding the toddler found dead on a Galveston beach nearly two months ago. Still, there are more questions than answers.
"What is the story? How did this child get there? Somebody knows something,” said Rania Mankarious, Executive Director of Crime Stoppers, “Why aren't they coming forward?"
Police believe the child, nicknamed “Little Jacob”, was between 3 and 5-years-old. The boy was found dead October 20, 2017 on the beach in an area that is not heavily populated.
The cause of his death has not been determined.
“To have a situation with absolutely no leads is quite rare,” explained Mankarious.
Mankarious and community leader Jennifer Hohman, founder of the #FightForUs movement, have been trying to work out where the boy may have come from and the circumstances surrounding his last moments.
In a press release Thursday, Galveston Police reveal two new pieces of information, “Investigators believe sometime on or about Wednesday, October 18, the family members caring for the boy may have provided a plausible explanation for the child’s whereabouts, such as, staying with family or friends out of the area. The explanation may have also indicated that the child would be away from the family’s care for an extended period of time. Prior to the boy’s disappearance, the family members caring for the child may have indicated that the child caused additional stress on the caregivers due to the child’s health or behavioral issues.”
Hohman says nothing should be ruled out including trafficking which is why it’s important to be nosy.
“You have a neighbor where you see that the child is no longer coming outside and then maybe giving an explanation that sounds plausible, be aware, be curious. Call Crime Stoppers.” said Hohman.
Although there are still so many unknowns in this case, one thing authorities believe they do know is this child’s killer is still out there.
“This was a little child whose last moments were probably horrific,” said Mankarious. “If that doesn't pull on your heartstrings or break your heart, I don't know what will.”
The FBI is hoping a $10,000 reward could lead to information about who "Little Jacob" is or who was caring for him.
Crime Stoppers is offering up to $5,000 for information that leads to an arrest.
Anyone with information about this case is asked to call 1-800-225-5324.
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