Missing Juvenile Alert – Help Find 14-Year-Old Keenan Petersen from Gallup, New Mexico
A troubling disappearance in Gallup
Missing person in New Mexico. The Gallup Police Department is urgently searching for 14-year-old Keenan Petersen, who vanished on November 7, 2025. His disappearance has shaken the community, leaving his family desperate for answers. Authorities are asking for the public’s help to locate him and bring him home safely.
Who is Keenan Petersen
Keenan is described as a bright and curious teenager who enjoys the outdoors and spending time with his friends. Standing 5 feet 3 inches tall and weighing 120 pounds, he has black hair and brown eyes. On the day he went missing, he wore a black shirt, gray sweater, faded blue jeans, black Vans shoes, and carried a black Jansport backpack.
His family describes him as funny, thoughtful, and full of energy. Keenan loves music, playing basketball, and working on his bike. He is close to his siblings and often helps around the house. His sudden disappearance has left an emptiness that his loved ones can’t begin to fill.
The last time he was seen
Keenan was last seen getting off the bus at Wingate High School but didn’t step off at his regular stop near 3798 East Highway 66 (Speedway) around 12:00 p.m. Witnesses confirmed he got off earlier than expected, but no one has seen him since. When he didn’t come home later that day, his family immediately contacted the Gallup Police Department, fearing something was wrong.
The timing of his disappearance and the fact that he didn’t reach his stop have raised serious concern. Investigators believe he may still be in the Gallup area, but they haven’t ruled out the possibility that he may have left town.
The ongoing search
Officers, volunteers, and school officials are working together to locate Keenan. Police have been reviewing bus camera footage and speaking with classmates who rode with him. Local businesses along Highway 66 have been asked to check their surveillance systems. Volunteers have been distributing flyers throughout Gallup, including near schools, shopping areas, and parks.
The Gallup Police Department has urged residents to keep an eye out, emphasizing that community awareness is vital. Even a brief sighting could help direct search efforts. “We just need that one tip,” one officer said. “Someone may have seen something they didn’t realize was important.”
Why public awareness matters
Every missing child alert relies on community involvement. A passerby, a store employee, or a driver could notice something vital. Sharing Keenan’s description — 5’03”, 120 pounds, black hair, brown eyes, black shirt, gray sweater, blue jeans, black Vans, and a black Jansport backpack — could make all the difference.
Accurate sharing of information is also critical. Authorities remind the public to confirm details from the Gallup Police Department or trusted sources before reposting. Verified updates prevent confusion and keep the search focused.
Family’s plea for help
Keenan’s family is heartbroken and pleading for his safe return. His mother said tearfully, “We just want him home. Please help us find him.” His father has joined volunteer teams, driving through nearby neighborhoods late into the night. Friends have been posting Keenan’s photo on social media, hoping someone recognizes him.
Support from the community continues to grow. Churches have organized prayers, and local groups are handing out flyers. The community’s unity is giving the family hope during this frightening time.
How you can help
If you live in or near Gallup, New Mexico, please stay alert. Look for a teenage boy matching Keenan’s description. If you think you’ve seen him, don’t hesitate to act.
Metro Dispatch: 505-722-2002
Gallup Police Department: 505-863-9365
Emergency: 911
Even the smallest clue can help bring Keenan home. Do not wait or assume someone else will report it.
Hope remains strong
Gallup stands united in the search for Keenan Petersen. Police, family, and neighbors refuse to give up until he is found. Every person who shares his story adds strength to the search.
