Urgent Search for 15-Year-Old Joshua Burton – Kingsport, Tennessee
A teen disappears near busy highways
Missing person in Tennessee. 15-year-old Joshua Burton vanished on November 21, 2025, near SR 36 (Kingsport Highway) and SR 75 (Bobby Hicks Highway) in Gray, Tennessee. His disappearance has created deep concern across Kingsport and surrounding communities. The Kingsport Police Department now urges residents to stay alert and share Joshua’s information widely.
Joshua has brown hair and blue eyes. He was last seen wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt, black sweatpants, and black and white shoes. Officers believe he may be traveling with Katelyn Wall, which adds urgency as both teens may be at risk.
Who is Joshua Burton?
Joshua is thoughtful, creative, and full of quiet energy. His family describes him as a caring boy who loves music, games, and time outdoors. He connects easily with others and values friendships deeply. His disappearance has left his household shaken and desperate for answers.
Friends say Joshua rarely goes long without contacting someone. Because of this, his sudden silence feels frightening and unusual. His loved ones check their phones constantly, hoping for any update. They worry about his safety, his location, and whether he can reach out for help.
The last confirmed location
Joshua was last seen in the Gray, Tennessee area, close to two major highways. Highways carry heavy traffic, constant movement, and countless travelers. Therefore, investigators believe Joshua or Katelyn may have been seen by drivers passing through the area.
These highways connect several towns across northeastern Tennessee, creating many possible directions of travel. Police urge drivers, residents, and workers in gas stations, stores, and parking lots to stay aware.
Clothing details remain important. His grey hoodie, black sweatpants, and black and white shoes may stand out in certain settings. People often remember clothing colors before faces, so these details could help someone identify him.
Investigators take action
The Kingsport Police Department continues to search for both Joshua and Katelyn. Officers have spoken with nearby businesses, reviewed store camera footage, and searched routes along SR 36 and SR 75. They are also working with surrounding jurisdictions in case the teens traveled outside Kingsport or Gray.
Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Division are verifying leads and checking any location where the teens might go. They remind the public that even a small tip can make a major difference.
Why public awareness matters
When a teen goes missing, community involvement becomes essential. Neighbors, travelers, employees, and passersby can spot details investigators never see. Someone filling up their car might notice two teens walking. Someone at a store might recall seeing Joshua’s grey hoodie. Even a single memory can break open a stalled search.
Sharing Joshua’s photo, description, and location helps spread awareness quickly. Social media posts travel across counties and states within minutes. Because highways connect so many communities, wide awareness is vital.
The family’s hope remains strong
Joshua’s family struggles through each minute of uncertainty. They replay his last moments at home. They wonder where he might go and whether he feels safe. His mother leaves a light on every night. His father keeps his phone close, hoping for a message or call. Loved ones hold tightly to hope that Joshua and Katelyn will be found unharmed.
His family says, “Joshua, we love you. Please come home. We just want you safe.”
Their words carry the emotional weight of every parent who desperately wants to hold their child again.
How you can help today
If you know anything about Joshua Burton or Katelyn Wall, contact police immediately. Do not assume your information is too small or unimportant. Every detail matters.
If you have information, call:
Kingsport Central Dispatch: 423-246-9111
Criminal Investigations Division: 423-229-9429
911 if you spot them directly
You can help by sharing his information, watching your surroundings, and staying alert in public spaces.
Hope continues in Tennessee
Communities across Kingsport and Gray continue to support the search. Families share his photo. Neighbors discuss updates. Officers remain committed. Hope grows as more people learn Joshua’s name and watch for him.
