Missing Child Alert for Brothers Zhavion and Zyvel Watson, Believed to Be with James Watson III; Public’s Help Critical in the Search
Zhavion Watson, 1, and Zyvel Watson, 4, Disappear from South Daytona; Authorities Say Time Is of the Essence in Locating the Children as Police Hunt for Two Possible Vehicles Linked to Their Suspected Abductor
Background of the Incident
Florida authorities have issued an urgent Missing Child Alert for two young brothers, Zhavion Watson, age 1, and Zyvel Watson, age 4, last seen in South Daytona, Volusia County. The alert, issued late on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, has sparked a statewide search for the two boys, who are believed to be in imminent danger.
The brothers were last seen in the vicinity of the 2100 block of Oak Meadow Circle in South Daytona. Law enforcement officials believe the children are in the company of their biological father, 35-year-old James Watson III, whose presence with the children has raised significant concerns about their safety.
Watson is described as a Black male, standing 5 feet 11 inches tall, weighing approximately 205 pounds, with shoulder-length black hair and brown eyes. The South Daytona Police Department suspects Watson may be traveling with the children in one of two vehicles: a 2016 white BMW X6 with Florida tag number DRS3997 or a 2005 gold Hummer H2 with a temporary Florida tag number DSS9432.
Details of the Disappearance
According to police reports, the disappearance occurred late Tuesday afternoon under unclear circumstances. Zhavion and Zyvel were last seen at their family’s residence in South Daytona, where witnesses report that James Watson III was present. Investigators have not disclosed whether Watson had legal custody of the children or if there was an existing custody dispute.
Family members have expressed growing alarm about the situation, fearing for the safety of the boys. Authorities have emphasized that James Watson’s behavior in taking the children is highly concerning and may indicate an intent to evade law enforcement.
The Urgent Search and Vehicles of Interest
Law enforcement agencies across Florida are coordinating efforts to locate the missing children and the suspect. Authorities have identified two vehicles that Watson may be driving:
- 2016 White BMW X6 (Florida tag DRS3997): This vehicle, known for its distinctive luxury SUV appearance, has been linked to Watson in recent months.
- 2005 Gold Hummer H2 (Temporary Florida tag DSS9432): A large, bulky SUV that may be used by Watson to avoid detection or as an alternative mode of transport.
Investigators have not yet determined which vehicle Watson is actively using, prompting an alert for both. The public is being urged to remain vigilant and report sightings of either vehicle immediately to local law enforcement.
Authorities Issue Public Plea for Assistance
South Daytona Police Chief John Malden held a press conference early Wednesday morning, urging the community to assist in the search for Zhavion and Zyvel Watson. “Every moment counts when children are involved. These boys are vulnerable and need to be found as soon as possible,” Malden said.
He cautioned the public against approaching James Watson III directly, describing him as a potentially volatile individual. Instead, anyone who sees the suspect, the children, or the vehicles is advised to call 911 immediately and provide as much detail as possible about the sighting.
Family’s Plea and Community Response
Family members of Zhavion and Zyvel have spoken publicly about the disappearance, expressing heartbreak and desperation to bring the boys home safely. “Zhavion and Zyvel are just babies. We need the community’s help to find them. Please, if you see anything, say something,” said a relative during the press conference.
Community members have rallied in support, sharing information about the Missing Child Alert on social media platforms and posting photos of the children and suspect to raise awareness. Local organizations have joined the effort, distributing flyers and amplifying the alert statewide.
Potential Custody Dispute and Investigation Status
Though law enforcement has not confirmed the underlying reasons for the disappearance, sources close to the family suggest that a custody dispute may have played a role. James Watson III’s relationship with the children’s mother is being examined as part of the investigation.
Police are also investigating Watson’s past behavior and any prior incidents that could shed light on his actions. Criminal records are being reviewed to determine whether Watson poses a significant risk to the children.
Understanding Missing Child Alerts
The Missing Child Alert is a statewide notification system activated when children under 18 are reported missing under suspicious or dangerous circumstances. Unlike AMBER Alerts, Missing Child Alerts are issued when there is no immediate evidence of abduction but concerns for the child’s safety remain high.
Florida’s Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse has been pivotal in disseminating information about Zhavion and Zyvel Watson, ensuring law enforcement agencies across the state are fully informed.
Safety Tips for the Public
Authorities are urging the public to exercise caution and avoid direct intervention if they spot Watson or the vehicles of interest. Instead, witnesses should:
- Take note of the vehicle’s license plate, make, model, and direction of travel.
- Call 911 or contact the South Daytona Police Department at 386-323-3568.
- Provide clear and accurate information to dispatchers, including the exact location and time of the sighting.
What’s at Stake
The disappearance of Zhavion and Zyvel highlights the fragility of young lives when caught in high-risk situations. The safe recovery of the children is the top priority for law enforcement, but time is of the essence. Every hour they remain missing increases the risk to their well-being.
Florida officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and proactive in spreading the word about the Missing Child Alert. With coordinated efforts, authorities hope to bring Zhavion and Zyvel home safely and resolve the situation without further incident.
Closing Statement and Call to Action
As the search for Zhavion and Zyvel Watson continues, the cooperation of the community is vital. Every set of eyes on the road, every shared post on social media, and every phone call reporting a possible sighting could make the difference in ensuring these children’s safety.
If you have any information, no matter how minor it may seem, contact the South Daytona Police Department immediately. Let’s work together to bring Zhavion and Zyvel back to their family and keep them out of harm’s way.
