A 12-year-old Oklahoma boy survived nine days alone in rural terrain after fleeing horrific abuse at home, while his mother and stepfather were arrested on charges including child sexual abuse and conspiracy.
Story Highlights
- Ryan “RJ” Davis disappeared January 2nd from Chickasha, Oklahoma after enduring physical and sexual abuse
- United Cajun Navy volunteers found him safe 24 miles away on January 11th in “good spirits”
- Mother Kimberly Cole and stepfather George Cole arrested on child abuse and conspiracy charges
- Boy now in Oklahoma DHS custody after surviving alone for over a week in winter conditions
Child Survives Against All Odds
Ryan Davis vanished from Fourth Street and Grand Avenue in Chickasha around 11:20 p.m. on January 2nd, launching a multi-agency search operation. The 12-year-old managed to survive harsh January weather conditions while traveling 24 miles to Caddo County near Cement, where United Cajun Navy volunteers discovered him on January 11th. Medical examinations revealed he was in remarkably good physical condition and maintained positive spirits despite the traumatic ordeal.
Parents Arrested on Horrific Abuse Charges
Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation arrested Kimberly Cole and George Cole on January 8th following evidence uncovered during the missing person investigation. The charges include child abuse, child sexual abuse, and conspiracy, with OSBI spokesperson Hunter McKee describing the home environment as “horrific.” Investigators discovered apparent harm through interviews and search warrants, confirming the boy’s disappearance stemmed from an unsafe living situation with documented prior incidents.
Massive Search Operation Mobilizes Community
Law enforcement agencies deployed drones, canines, and hundreds of volunteers across rural areas between Caddo and Grady counties. The search intensified January 9th-10th with a $5,000 reward offered for information leading to the boy’s safe return. Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, Chickasha Police, and Oklahoma Department of Human Services coordinated the extensive operation, demonstrating how community volunteers often succeed where traditional methods fall short in challenging rural terrain.
This case highlights critical failures in child protection systems that allowed repeated abuse to escalate until a child felt compelled to flee into dangerous conditions. The boy had previously gone missing, indicating a pattern of instability that should have triggered more aggressive intervention from child welfare authorities.
Justice and Recovery Path Forward
Caddo County District Attorney will prosecute the abuse charges against both parents, who remain in custody without noted legal representation. Ryan Davis is now under Oklahoma DHS protection, ensuring he will not return to the abusive environment. Chickasha Police Chief Goebel Music emphasized the need for comprehensive medical and emotional care, recognizing the long-term trauma recovery ahead for this resilient young survivor.
The successful outcome demonstrates the power of volunteer organizations like United Cajun Navy, whose dedication to search and rescue operations often proves more effective than government agencies alone. This case underscores the importance of supporting community-based initiatives that fill gaps in official emergency response capabilities.
Sources:
Missing Oklahoma boy found safe after mom, stepfather arrested on abuse charges
Mother, stepfather arrested for alleged child abuse amid search for missing 12-year-old
RJ Davis found safe according to Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation
Missing ‘Physically and Sexually Abused’ Ohio Boy Found Safe, Survives Alone for Nearly a Week
