NEEDHAM, Massachusetts, November 13, 2026 — Cole Davison, the Needham High School senior whose disappearance prompted a search involving police, firefighters, K9 teams and drones, has been located, police announced Friday.
The Needham Police Department said Davison would receive care at a local hospital. In its announcement, the department described itself as “incredibly relieved and happy” and thanked the agencies that helped search for him.
“Most importantly, we are grateful Cole has been found,” police said in the update, reported by the New York Post.
Disappearance Prompted Search Near South Street
Davison was last seen near South Street at approximately 11:30 p.m. EST on Wednesday, November 11. Search teams concentrated on the area around 1000 South Street, and an emergency notice reached the Needham community at 10:53 a.m. Thursday.
Needham Police Chief John Schlittler appealed for information Thursday afternoon as worsening weather threatened to complicate the operation.
“Cole went missing last night and we are worried about his safety,” Schlittler said, according to the Needham Observer.
The chief said approaching rain could ground the drones, while other search teams would continue working.
Superintendent Dan Gutekanst confirmed during the search that Davison was a senior at Needham High School. Faculty and students were informed of his disappearance, the Needham Observer reported.
Firefighters Searched Charles River as Drones Worked Overhead
Needham police worked alongside Metro-LEC Search and Rescue, K9 teams and drone operators. Responders from surrounding communities, including Abington, Wellesley and Norwell, assisted on foot and by bicycle.
A rescue boat searched the Charles River, while a helicopter supported the operation overhead. Police also asked residents to check surveillance recordings for possible sightings.
During the search, police asked residents to keep clear of the area because additional heat signatures could slow the work of drones using thermal imaging. The department also asked the public to respect Davison’s family’s privacy.
In other Massachusetts news, police also responded to the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge cargo ship strike.
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