Neighbours in Rudy Farias case have questioned if he was ever missing

Ellen Fitzpatrick

He was found alive over the weekend.

Neighbours of 25-year-old man Rudy Farias, who was found alive after being reported missing eight years ago, are now questioning if he was ever really missing.

Rudolph “Rudy” Farias IV was discovered last week at a church eight miles away from his home in Houston, NBC News reported.

Farias was 17 years old when he went missing on the evening of March 6th, 2015. He went for a walk with his two dogs and never returned home.

The now 25-year-old was discovered outside the church and brought to hospital for a checkup. The Texas Center for the Missing confirmed in a tweet: “After 8 long years, Rudy has been located safe. Please continue to keep his family in your prayers as Rudy recovers in the hospital.”

Update: 7/1/23– After 8 long years, Rudy has been located safe. Please continue to keep his family in your prayers as Rudy recovers in the hospital. https://t.co/AFqj9qvm9G

— TX Center 4 Missing (@TXCenter) July 2, 2023

Rudy’s neighbours have now claimed they were shocked to discover the news that he had been found as they were never aware he had been reported missing, and claim they saw the young man many times over the last eight years.

“He used to come in my garage, chill with my cousin, son, and daughter,” Kisha Ross told ABC13. “That boy has never been missing.”

While they hadn’t seen him in the last few weeks, Ross’ cousins also recalled hanging out with him and said Rudy often went to the park by himself.

Rudy’s mother Janie Santana has now said in a separate statement that her son is unable to communicate at the moment but she is hopeful the family will learn what happened to Rudy.

“My son Rudy Farias IV was found on Thursday, June 29th, after being missing for 8 years. Currently, we do not have any additional information on Rudy’s case,” Santana’s family statement reads.

“What we do know is at the time of his recovery, a good Samaritan located him unresponsive and immediately called the police and 911. My son Rudy is receiving the care he needs to overcome his trauma, but at this time, he is nonverbal and not able to communicate with us. We are asking for privacy during this difficult time but will share more details as Rudy continues to heal.”