Elijah Hoard found safe after four-day disappearance in Chicago

After four days of anguish, it’s time for relief for the Hoard-Foucade family. Missing since Friday evening at Chicago airport, Elijah Hoard has been found safe and sound, announced American police, without providing further details.

The brother of French international Jaylen Hoard, who came through ASVEL‘s training center, had traveled to visit his father, former professional Antwon Hoard, across the Atlantic. « Everything was normal during the first eight days of his visit but his morale completely shifted during the last two days, » explained the 2008 Pro B finals MVP. « He was adamant about not wanting to return to France. »

A concerning disappearance at the airport

Elijah Hoard never boarded his return flight to France, leaving the airport on foot, as surveillance footage later revealed. « To my knowledge, he never got on the plane, his luggage wasn’t checked in and he never did his check-in… »

« We are extremely relieved, » wrote his sister Anaia Hoard on Instagram. « From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who spread the information around the world, those who checked in and supported us during this difficult period. Your kindness, your messages and your efforts to find him mean more than you can imagine. Your support really carried us these past few days. We also sincerely thank the Chicago police and the French consulate in Chicago for their attention and help. »

While their mothers played together, Victor Wembanyama also had words for Elijah after the Spurs‘ victory over the Sixers. « He just got found, I’m so happy about it. Our families have been close for a long time. You always think it only happens to others and it was the first time I found myself in this situation. I’m extremely relieved. »