FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — A young boy has been found safe after he was separated from his family during a hike at Lava River Cave north of Flagstaff, Coconino County officials said.
The 8-year-old boy reportedly disappeared around 6:15 p.m. on Wednesday after walking off in an unknown direction from the entrance of the cave.
His disappearance triggered a widespread search effort with volunteers who successfully found him Thursday morning.
The investigation into his disappearance continues.
The volunteers and family members gathered, held hands and sang a celebratory song while dancing after the boy was found safe.
"The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank all the agencies who assisted and the community who came out in and helped with the search," officials said.
The boy's disappearance was unrelated to another boy who went missing near the Grand Canyon overnight. That 8-year-old child was also found safe.
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