Missing Atlanta Boy Found in Colorado After Mother’s Arrest Seven Years Later

Authorities have confirmed the discovery of a boy who had been missing for seven years after allegedly being abducted by his mother, who did not have legal custody of him. The child was found in Colorado when local law enforcement arrested his mother, identified as 40-year-old Rabia Khalid, for a suspected burglary in suburban Denver. Sheriff's deputies encountered Khalid during an investigation of an empty house listed for sale, where they observed Khalid and a male companion emerging from the property. During the encounter, deputies also noticed two children waiting in a parked vehicle outside the house.

Upon further investigation, deputies realized that Khalid had an active arrest warrant related to the 2017 disappearance of her son, Abdul Aziz Khan, who is currently 14 years old. Before being found, the high-profile case of Khan's disappearance had been highlighted in the Netflix series "Unsolved Mysteries," with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service in the ongoing search. The older child in the vehicle was subsequently identified as Abdul Aziz Khan himself.

In connection with this incident, Khalid and her companion were arrested on multiple charges including second-degree kidnapping, identity theft, and forgery. Khalid's attorney, Kyle Sawyer, mentioned that he is reviewing all available information regarding the case, but asserted his resolve to fervently defend his client.

The sheriff's department indicated that both Abdul Aziz Khan and the younger child, whose identity was withheld, have been taken into protective custody. Authorities also announced that the court will be responsible for determining the future placement of the children. The boy's family has expressed relief and joy over Abdul Aziz Khan’s recovery, also asking for privacy as they navigate this complex and emotional event. In their statement, the family conveyed deep gratitude toward everyone involved, expressing appreciation for the extensive support received during the seven years of uncertainty.