A family in Guizhou province, China, hosted a 350-table banquet to thank roughly 200 to 300 community members and rescue workers who spent nearly 80 hours searching for their four-year-old autistic son, Wenhao, after he wandered away from home on August 1, according to local news reports.
The Disappearance and Search Operation in Guizhou
Wenhao walked out the back door of his home alone while family members were occupied with housework, according to reports from Sohu and Khaosod Online. Because the four-year-old child has autism and communication limitations, his family immediately launched a local search before reporting the incident to police.
Surveillance footage tracked the boy passing through several nearby villages before he was recorded near an abandoned construction building. After that point, he moved beyond camera coverage. Local police, community agencies, and rescue teams deployed police dogs, thermal-imaging drones, and specialized search equipment. Between 200 and 300 people joined the multi-day mission.
Rescue and Recovery After Nearly 80 Hours
Search teams located Wenhao in a cornfield during the evening of August 4, following nearly 80 hours of continuous searching, according to the published reports. Rescuers immediately transferred the boy to a hospital. Medical staff treated him for severe dehydration resulting from lack of food and water over several days, along with signs of bodily infection. After a multi-day recovery period, Wenhao’s condition improved, and doctors discharged him on August 11.
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Gratitude Banquet and Community Response
Following media coverage of the rescue, numerous individuals contacted the family to offer financial assistance, according to the boy’s father. The family declined all monetary donations, choosing instead to express their gratitude through a community feast. On August 16, the family hosted a large banquet for the rescue helpers.
The family emphasized that the gathering aimed solely to thank everyone involved in the search mission rather than accept gifts or money. In response to the near-tragedy, Wenhao’s parents decided to alter their living arrangements. Instead of traveling far from home for work, both parents intend to secure employment locally to stay close and monitor their son. Furthermore, the family plans to equip Wenhao with a GPS tracking device to prevent future wandering incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Wenhao go missing?
Wenhao walked away from his Guizhou home on August 1, according to local news sources.
How long was the boy missing before he was found?
Search teams found the boy after nearly 80 hours on the evening of August 4.
Did the family accept financial donations from the public?
No. According to the boy’s father, the family declined monetary offers and instead organized a 350-table banquet on August 16 to thank the volunteers and rescue workers.
What precautions are the parents taking now?
The parents plan to work locally near their home and equip Wenhao with a GPS tracking device.