London, Kentucky, authorities issued an urgent plea on Sunday, November 2, 2025, as 15-year-old Chesney Caldwell disappeared without a trace, last spotted around 7:34 a.m. local time. The London Police Department, in coordination with the Laurel County 911 Center, released a detailed description and photo of the teen, emphasizing that every minute counts in the search for the slender high schooler who stands 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighs approximately 127 pounds

Chesney, with his brown hair cropped just above the ears and matching brown eyes, was possibly last seen wearing a casual outfit suited for a cool fall morning: a blue sweatshirt, matching sweatpants, and distinctive necklaces that could help identify him in a crowd. The police alert, posted prominently on the department’s official Facebook page, described the circumstances succinctly: “Chesney Caldwell, age 15, was reported as missing to the London Police Department and was last seen at approximately 7:34 a.m. on November 2, 2025.” No specific location within London was detailed beyond the general area, prompting an immediate call for community vigilance

The sleepy city of London, nestled in the heart of Laurel County amid the rolling hills of eastern Kentucky, awoke to the news with a wave of concern. Local media outlets, including LEX 18, FOX 56 News, and WTVQ, amplified the alert within hours, sharing the police photo and urging residents to scan neighborhoods, parks, and roadways. “Anyone with information on Chesney Caldwell’s whereabouts is asked to contact the London-Laurel County 911 Center at 606-878-7000 or your local law enforcement agency,” the posts reiterated, stressing that tips of any size—from a fleeting glimpse to vehicle details—could prove pivotal.

As of early Monday, November 3, no confirmed sightings or breakthroughs had surfaced in public reports, keeping the case active and the pressure on. Social media buzzed with shares from regional groups like Kentucky Online Breaking News & Weather, where hundreds reposted the image alongside prayers and offers to canvas areas. X (formerly Twitter) saw quick reposts from stations like @LEX18News and @FOX56News, garnering thousands of impressions in the first day. Community pages on Facebook, including those dedicated to Laurel County justice and local news, flooded timelines, turning the digital space into a virtual search party.

London Police Chief Chuck Miller, though not quoted directly in initial releases, leads a department well-versed in missing persons cases, often relying on public partnerships due to the area’s mix of urban hubs and rural outskirts. Laurel County’s terrain—dotted with dense woods, highways like I-75, and proximity to Daniel Boone National Forest—poses challenges for searches, making widespread awareness crucial. Past successes in the region, such as quick recoveries of runaways through social media virality, fuel optimism that Chesney could be located swiftly if eyes stay open.

Chesney’s profile fits a common yet heartbreaking pattern in juvenile disappearances: teens from stable backgrounds who stray briefly but face risks from traffic, weather, or unfamiliar encounters. At 15, he may have school ties—possibly London Laurel High or a middle school in the district—prompting checks with peers and faculty. The necklaces, a personal flair, stand out as identifiers, potentially catching attention in stores, gas stations, or fast-food spots along main drags like Highway 80.

The Caldwell family, thrust into uncertainty, has not issued public statements, respecting the ongoing investigation. However, the raw plea in police postings underscores their desperation: “Please share Chesney’s photo and information—every share helps bring him home.” This grassroots approach mirrors national efforts by organizations like the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, though this appears a local runaway or wandering case rather than abduction at this stage.

Kentucky State Police and surrounding agencies stand ready to assist, with protocols for escalating to an AMBER Alert if foul play emerges. For now, the focus remains on voluntary tips, avoiding speculation that could hinder leads. Residents are advised to review home surveillance footage from Sunday morning and report anomalies.

Broader context highlights the stakes: The U.S. sees thousands of missing youth annually, with 90% recovered safely, often within 48 hours, per FBI data. Social media’s role has exploded, turning bystanders into detectives—shares from this alert alone topped 1,000 across platforms by evening. In rural Kentucky, where community bonds run deep, this could tip the scales.

Volunteers have begun informal searches, combing trails and lots near Chesney’s likely path. Churches and schools in London rallied, printing flyers for distribution at Walmart, Dollar General, and eateries. “He’s one of ours— we’ll find him,” echoed sentiments in comment sections.

As daylight fades on day two, the clock ticks louder. Chesney Caldwell’s smile in the shared photo—a fresh-faced kid with a slight build and earnest eyes—serves as a stark reminder of innocence at risk. From coal-country roots to mountain vistas, Laurel County unites in hope.

If you’re in the area, scan your surroundings: a boy in blue, maybe fidgeting with necklaces, seeking direction. That call to 606-878-7000 could end this ordeal. Share widely, stay vigilant—bringing Chesney home starts with you.

Authorities confirm no new developments as of 1:15 a.m. CST on November 3, but the search intensifies at dawn. Check local updates via London PD’s Facebook or news outlets. Together, we amplify the call until he’s safe.