Search On For 15-Year-Old Reported Missing In Hempstead, Police Say

Nassau County police have enlisted the public's help in the search for a 15-year-old after he was reported missing from his Hempstead home.

By Tom Gambardella, Patch Staff

Aug 5, 2026 1:19 PM EDT | Updated Aug 5, 2026 1:21 PM EDT

15-year-old Joel Villatoro. (Nassau County Police Department)

HEMPSTEAD, NY — Nassau County police are searching for a missing 15-year-old after he was last seen at 1 a.m. Tuesday in Hempstead.

Police said 15-year-old Joel Villatoro's possible destination was unknown Wednesday, as was his clothing. Police described Villatoro as a Hispanic boy, standing 5-feet, 6-inches, weighing about 145 lbs. with black hair and brown eyes.

Police requested that anyone with information on Villatoro's whereabouts contact missing persons at 516-573-7347 or call 911.

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