Five Days of Fear and Silence: Family Desperately Seeks Answers After 16-Year-Old Ivan Sanchez Disappears Without His Phone—Last Seen at Valero Asking Truck Drivers for a Ride
SAN ANTONIO, TX — April 19, 2025
It has been five agonizing days since 16-year-old Ivan Sanchez vanished from his family’s home in far South Bexar County, and his loved ones are clinging to hope while pleading for help from the public.
Ivan was last seen on the afternoon of April 14, when he told his mother, Crystal Salas, that he was stepping outside to take out the trash. What was supposed to be a routine moment became the last time she saw her son.
“He never came back in. He told me he loved me. He said, ‘I love you, Mom,’” Salas recalled, holding back tears. “My baby, I want him home. Please help bring him home safe.”
The family’s concern deepened after discovering surveillance video from a nearby Valero gas station on the same day Ivan disappeared. The footage shows Ivan approaching 18-wheeler drivers and others, apparently asking for a ride.
“My husband went and looked at the footage, and it was him,” Salas confirmed. “He was trying to hitch a ride. We don’t know where he ended up.”
Adding to the mystery, Ivan reportedly left a note saying he was heading to Dallas. But why he was trying to travel alone, and what prompted the sudden decision, remains unclear.
Even more concerning: Ivan did not take his phone with him, cutting off any way for his family or friends to track or contact him.
Family Gripped by Fear and Heartache
Ivan’s father, also named Ivan Sanchez, expressed deep sorrow and helplessness as the family struggles to understand what happened.
“He’s my best friend, man. Come home, Daddy. We love you so much,” the father said, holding back emotion.
Ivan’s younger siblings, confused and hurting, ask when their big brother will come back. The home, once filled with daily chatter and laughter, now echoes with silence and worry.
“His little brother and sister keep asking for him,” said Salas. “We just want him to come home safe. That’s all we ask.”
Physical Description and Investigation
Ivan Sanchez is described as:
- Height: 5 feet 7 inches
- Weight: Approximately 115 pounds
- Hair: Black
- Eyes: Brown
The Bexar County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) has launched an active investigation through their Missing Persons Unit. Detectives are following leads, and investigators continue to review surveillance footage and interview anyone who may have had contact with Ivan.
“We’re doing everything we can to bring Ivan home safely,” said a spokesperson from the BCSO. “We encourage anyone who saw him or knows anything to come forward immediately.”
Community Rallies for Ivan
As word spreads about Ivan’s disappearance, members of the San Antonio community and surrounding areas have begun to rally behind the Sanchez family. Flyers have been distributed, local businesses have posted Ivan’s photo in their windows, and social media users are sharing his story in hopes of generating new leads.
Local nonprofits and youth outreach programs have also joined the effort, helping coordinate search teams and offering emotional support to the family.
How You Can Help
If you have seen Ivan Sanchez or have any information about his whereabouts, please contact:
- 📞 Bexar County Sheriff’s Office: 210-335-6000
- 📧 missingpersons@bexar.org
Even the smallest detail may help bring Ivan home.
In Their Words
Ivan’s mother remains resolute in her belief that her son is out there.
“He’s kind, gentle, smart—and so loved,” Salas said. “We just want him back in our arms. If anyone has him or knows where he is, please let him go. Please send him home.”
As the search enters its sixth day, the Sanchez family—and an entire community—refuse to give up. They continue to wait, to hope, and to pray that the door will open and Ivan will walk back in.
For the latest updates on Ivan Sanchez’s disappearance and efforts to bring him home, follow local news and visit the official Bexar County Sheriff’s Office website.