A Georgia teenager who went missing in 2017 has been located safe and sound in Colorado, closing out an astonishing case in a surprising way. Fourteen-year-old Abdul Aziz Khan went missing when his mother missed a court hearing on custody. For years, his location was a mystery—until a burglary report sent police directly to him.
A Routine Call Becomes a Breakthrough
On Feb. 23, Highlands Ranch, Colorado, deputies answered a call of a potential break-in. A resident had reviewed security footage and noticed suspicious movement within his home. When officers arrived at the scene, they located two adults within and two children waiting in a car outside. Deputies said they left without being inside.”.
The adults, 40-year-old Rabia Khalid and her spouse, 42-year-old Elliot Blake Bourgeois, said they were real estate workers. But their contradictory statements raised the suspicions of the officers. Further investigation uncovered a stunning revelation: one of the children in the vehicle was Abdul Aziz Khan, who had gone missing for almost seven years.
A Case That Gained National Attention
The case had just been covered on Netflix’s Unsolved Mysteries, reigniting interest. Officials never lost hope, but tips had faded—until this surprise break. Sheriff Darren Weekly complimented his deputies on their good instincts.
“What started as a run-of-the-mill trespass call became the return of a missing child,” he said. “Their diligence and perseverance brought about the truth.”
Family’s Emotional Response
Aziz’s family was flooded with relief upon hearing the news. For years, they had lived in limbo. Now, finally, they had closure. “We are delighted that Aziz has been located,” the family stated. “We wish to thank all those who have stood by us through these lengthy seven years.”
The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children also praised the deputies for their rapid response. The agency, which assists in tracking missing children, was working on the case from the start.
Arrests and Legal Consequences
Khalid and Bourgeois were taken into custody and are charged with various crimes, including kidnapping, forgery, identity theft, and giving false information to a law enforcement officer. They were booked into jail with bail at $1 million each.
The authorities are also probing how they were able to stay under the radar for so long. The couple had probably moved around a lot, taking care not to do anything that would arouse suspicion.
What’s Next?
Aziz and the second child, whose name has not been disclosed, have been taken into protective custody. A court will decide what happens next. In the meantime, legal action against Khalid and Bourgeois is likely to proceed quickly.
This case highlights the importance of never giving up on missing children. One unexpected event—a burglary report—led to a discovery that changed a young boy’s life forever.
Though the 7 years lost couldn’t be recovered it is good that Aziz is with his family now. Lastly, it is very important for people to be safe and on the radar of their family members.
