Columbus police issue critical missing alert for teen, ask public for immediate information and sightings
What police have released so far
Police in Columbus, Georgia, are asking for the public’s help to locate a teenager classified as a critical missing juvenile. In cases labeled critical, investigators typically treat time as a central risk factor and prioritize fast verification of sightings, last-known movements, and potential locations where the teen may be headed.
The most recent public bulletin from the Columbus Police Department in this case identifies the missing teen as Marvin Gonzalez Lopez, 16. Police said he was last seen in the Patch Drive area around noon on Sept. 7, 2026. The case was reported to police the same day.
Lopez is described as 5 feet tall and about 105 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Police said he was last seen wearing a black hoodie and sweatpants of an unknown color.
How the public can help without compromising the investigation
Investigators are urging anyone who believes they have seen Lopez, has information about where he may be, or can account for his last known direction of travel to contact emergency services. Police have asked the public to call 911, or reach the Columbus Police Department Special Victims Unit at 706-225-3449. Police also listed the lead investigator as Cpl. J. Staton at 706-392-7082.
Share specific, time-stamped details: where the teen was seen, the direction of travel, and any companions or vehicles involved.
Avoid posting unverified claims on social media that could misdirect searches or expose the teen to additional risk.
If a sighting appears immediate or the teen seems in danger, call 911 first rather than attempting to intervene.
What “critical missing” generally means in practice
Missing-juvenile investigations commonly involve rapid coordination between patrol units, specialized investigators, and external partners when warranted. A critical designation can trigger more urgent steps such as accelerated canvassing for witnesses, checks of known hangouts, and faster vetting of tips. The goal is to shorten the time between the last confirmed sighting and the next verified contact.
Anyone with information about Lopez or his whereabouts is asked to contact 911, the CPD Special Victims Unit, or the lead investigator.
Where the case stands now
Police have not publicly released additional details about circumstances surrounding the disappearance beyond the last-seen location, time frame, and identifying description. The department’s request emphasizes immediate reporting of credible tips as the search continues.