Kewanee police issued a public update on their efforts to locate Catrelle Reed, who has been missing for several days.
Reed went missing in Kewanee on Thursday, May 22. His last known contact that day was at 2 p.m. According to police, Reed was believed to be wearing brown boots, blue jeans and a high-visibility vest at the time he went missing. Police also noted distinctive tattoos of a rose on his hand, wings on his neck and several other tattoos on his upper body.
In a Facebook post, the Kewanee Police Department said it continues to actively investigate the disappearance of Catrelle Reed.
“This case remains our number one priority, and our detectives have been working to develop leads and gather information. The Illinois State Police and Henry County Sheriff’s Office are also actively assisting in the investigation.”
According to police, “the vehicle Catrelle was last known to be in was found parked in an alley near Catrelle’s residence by a concerned resident. The vehicle was reported to the police prior to Catrelle being reported missing.
“After the missing person report was filed, the vehicle was processed by Crime Scene Investigators (CSI). In addition, through license plate reader data and private business and residential surveillance footage, detectives have confirmed that the vehicle was observed driving during the morning hours of May 23 between 7 and 8.’
Police say investigators have continued to pursue leads and examine information.
“While we have developed several avenues of interest, there is currently no concrete evidence pointing to Catrelle’s exact location or what may have happened to him. The case remains very active, and additional investigative steps are currently underway.”
The police also addressed the public’s concern and desire to help.
“However, at this point in the investigation, random searches are not an effective use of our resources. They can unintentionally pull detectives away from focused investigative tasks that are more likely to produce actionable information.”
The KPD has consulted with an experienced search and rescue organization, the Illinois State Police, and the Henry County Sheriff’s Office, the public post read.
“All agree that without reliable, specific information, random searches are not practical or advisable at this time.
“If credible information arises suggesting a particular area needs to be searched, we will not hesitate to deploy every available resource, including law enforcement personnel, trained volunteer search groups, and assistance from the public. We were initially hesitant to release information about random searches due to the risk of increasing calls to search locations without relevance to the case, which could hinder investigative progress and pull investigators away from current leads,” the post reads.
Kewanee police said that while they wish to be fully transparent and will continue to investigate, having to post updates to social media takes away from duties such as reviewing surveillance footage tied to the investigation.
“Additionally, detectives and staff have also had to step away from active casework to respond to calls from individuals upset about perceived inaction, taking valuable time away from critical investigative tasks. We hope this helps explain how valuable our time and focus are in this phase of the investigation. Your patience and understanding allow us to concentrate on the work that has the highest chance of leading to answers.”
The police also warned residents who wish to conduct searches to do so “safely, lawfully and respectfully.”
“Do not enter private property without permission and always remain aware of your surroundings,” the post read.
The KPD also asks that anyone who finds any items that may be related to this case or has reliable information that may assist the investigation, to contact the KPD or your local law enforcement agency immediately.
“We remain committed to bringing resolution to this case and appreciate the support and assistance of Catrelle’s family and our community,” the Facebook post said.