Missing **Adam** Search Intensifies Near Hofstade Ponds

Parents voice concerns as authorities deploy thermal sensors in the search.

A frantic search is underway near Hofstade, Belgium, for a young man identified as **Adam**, who went missing while reportedly heading out for fries. His parents have voiced concerns regarding the pace of the search operation.

Distress Call and Disappearance

According to **Adam’s** parents, they received a call around 7 p.m. reporting their son’s disappearance. **Adam** had left to get fries in the neighborhood, possibly falling into the nearby water, although the details remain unclear. They emphasized he is a capable swimmer, a skill honed annually during family holidays. However, they fear a sudden illness may have contributed to the incident, referencing earlier health challenges during his childhood.

The parents told reporters, “Yesterday, around 7 pm, we received a call informing us of the disappearance of our son. He had gone to look for fries at the subdivision. He may then have fallen into the water, but we are not sure.”

Search Efforts Hampered

The search is focused on two ponds, one spanning 25,000 square meters and the other 35,000 square meters, the latter featuring a beach stretching 800 meters in length and 30 meters in width. One of the ponds has significant depth in certain areas. Authorities are utilizing thermal sensors in an attempt to locate **Adam**, but the effectiveness is compromised by the high ambient temperatures.

Parents’ Questions

**Adam’s** parents acknowledged the efforts of the police and firefighters, but questioned the timing of the response. “Why didn’t they start earlier?” they asked.

Search and rescue operations are time-sensitive. According to the National Search and Rescue Plan, the greatest chance of survival occurs within the first 24 hours of a person going missing (DHS.gov).

Earlier Health Concerns

Despite earlier health problems, **Adam’s** parents insisted that their son was generally in good health. They mentioned he previously suffered from a heart condition.