Missing Teens Located Safe in Iredell and Gaston Counties

The search for missing Iredell County teenager Gideon Andrew Ferguson has ended safely, while another high-profile missing juvenile case in the region has also been resolved.

The Iredell County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that 14-year-old Gideon Ferguson was found alive on Saturday after being missing for more than two days. Authorities say Ferguson was located approximately a mile and a half from his home in Cleveland, North Carolina, after an extensive multi-agency search that included local deputies, volunteers, drones, and federal assistance. He was evaluated by medical personnel due to exposure to cold temperatures and is continuing to recover. Investigators say the circumstances surrounding his disappearance remain under review.

In a separate case, Clayton Clark, a 14-year-old from Gastonia who had been reported missing in late December, has also been located. According to the Gastonia Sheriff’s Office, Clark was found and is safe. No additional details about the circumstances of his disappearance or recovery have been released.

Law enforcement officials say while both juveniles have been safely located, investigations into the circumstances surrounding their disappearances may continue. Authorities are reminding families to remain vigilant and report concerns promptly, noting that quick reporting and community awareness remain critical in missing-juvenile cases.

Both cases had drawn widespread attention and community concern across multiple counties in North Carolina.