Missing 3-year-old boy found safe in National Forest near New Waverly

WALKER COUNTY – A 3-year-old boy who was missing in the Sam Houston National Forest has been found safe nearly 24 hours after disappearing, according to rescue crews.

Ezra, 3, was reported missing around 3 p.m. Saturday at the National Forest, near New Waverly, along the Walker County, Montgomery County line.

Officials said Ezra and his family were camping in a highly wooded area when Ezra wandered from them.

He was found by crew members in a pile of brush -- safe and sound.

"He is alert, smiling and reported to be in good condition. He's being evaluated by our medical team," Capt. Jimmy Williams said.

Officials said he was found 400 yards from the last place he was seen by family members.

"(The) outcome, I don't think any of us expected. I think we certainly hoped for the best, expected the worst," Williams said. 

Medics rushed Ezra to the hospital to get checked. Officials said he was treated for minor scrapes and scratches and dehydration, but otherwise in good spirits. 

"How'd he do it? I don't know. God had a special hand on him. We were just his little workers," Tim Miller said.

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