Full Breakdown
South Bend Police Locate Missing 8-Year-Old While Mother Remains at Large
7/13/2026, 12:23:51 PM
Child Located, Mother Still Sought
South Bend police announced that the missing eight-year-old Carlito Chism has been found and is safe. The child was last seen on Sunday, July 12, at about 11:30 a.m. in the 1000 block of Lincoln Way West, traveling on foot with his 38-year-old mother, Carrie Crawford. Authorities have not yet made contact with Crawford, who is described as “armed and dangerous.” Police continue to urge the public not to approach either individual and to call 911 with any information.
Official Statements & Responses
The South Bend Police Department issued a statewide Silver Alert early Sunday evening, emphasizing the extreme danger to the child and the threat posed by the mother. The department provided a direct contact line (574-235-9201) for tips and reiterated that anyone who sees the pair should refrain from engagement. Indiana State Police confirmed the alert’s issuance and described Crawford as a 5-foot, 190-pound Black female with black hair and brown eyes.
Why It Matters
The rapid activation of a Silver Alert underscores the seriousness with which law-enforcement treats cases involving children believed to be in imminent danger. The alert’s statewide reach reflects coordination between local and state agencies and highlights community responsibility in locating vulnerable individuals. The ongoing search for Crawford also raises public-safety concerns given the explicit “armed and dangerous” designation.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources agree that Carlito Chism has been located, yet they differ on the timing of the alert’s cancellation. One report notes that Indiana State Police canceled the Silver Alert just after 9 p.m. on Sunday, while other outlets do not mention the cancellation. No public information has been released regarding Crawford’s current whereabouts or whether she has been apprehended.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If you see either of them, do not approach them, call 911.” — South Bend Police
- “INDIANAPOLIS (WRTV) -- A Statewide Silver Alert was declared early Sunday evening for an 8-year-old boy and his "armed and dangerous" mother, who were last seen in South Bend.” — Indiana State Police
- “Police say the 8-year-old child is believed to be in extreme danger.” — South Bend Police
- “If you see Chism or Crawford, police say “do not approach”, call 911 and reference this post.” — South Bend Police
