BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA — Authorities in Baton Rouge are urgently asking the public for help in locating 15-year-old Ja’Derrius Minnieweather, who has been missing since June 5, 2026, as concern continues to grow among his family, friends, and the wider community.

Police say the teen was last seen in the Ghost Town area on June 5. Since then, no confirmed sightings have been reported, prompting an active and ongoing search effort across multiple locations. Officials are urging anyone with information to come forward immediately as investigators work to piece together his last known movements.

Ja’Derrius is described as approximately 5 feet tall and weighing under 100 pounds. Authorities have circulated these identifying details widely in hopes that someone may recognize him or recall seeing him in the days surrounding his disappearance.

Family members say they are devastated by the sudden disappearance and are pleading for public assistance. In emotional statements, they emphasized that Ja’Derrius is a caring and active teenager who would not typically vanish without contact. They are urging anyone who may have seen or spoken to him to report even the smallest detail, stressing that no piece of information is insignificant in a case like this.

Loved ones also shared insight into his personality and interests, describing him as a lively teenager preparing to enter 10th grade at Stroma High School. According to family, he was energetic, sociable, and passionate about dirt bike riding. He often spent time with friends, participated in community activities, and worked at rodeo events, where he was known for his enthusiasm and willingness to help.

That passion for dirt bike riding, family members said, was one of the defining parts of his personality. It reflected his adventurous spirit and love for being outdoors, often connecting him with friends who shared similar interests. Those close to him now say they are struggling to understand how he could disappear without any trace.

Police have not released further details about potential leads or circumstances surrounding his disappearance, but confirmed that all available resources are being used in the search effort. Investigators continue to follow up on tips and examine areas where he may have been seen.

Community members across Baton Rouge have also joined the effort, sharing alerts and supporting the family’s call for answers. Local organizations and volunteers have been assisting in spreading awareness, hoping that increased visibility will lead to new information.

Authorities are asking anyone with information, no matter how small, to contact 911 immediately or reach out to Crime Stoppers. Officials stress that even seemingly minor details could be critical in locating the missing teen.

As the search continues, Ja’Derrius’s family remains hopeful for his safe return while enduring what they describe as an unbearable waiting period filled with uncertainty and fear.