HEIGHTS — The body of a man found in the Rouge River near Hines Park Jan. 8 could be that of an autistic man who was reported missing the day before, police said.
Yousif Hassan Naim, 30, was last seen around 1:30 p.m. Jan. 7 in the area of Warren Avenue and Ann Arbor Trail, walking north on Beaverland Street in Detroit. Naim was last seen wearing a burgundy jacket, a blue beanie hat, and gloves featuring a Chicago Bulls logo.
A multi-jurisdictional search began after Mayor Mo Baydoun called for an emergency call to action, urging residents, city employees, and the broader community to assist in locating Naim.
About 3 p.m. Jan. 8, a police drone located a body in the Rouge River. Police and partnering law enforcement agencies responded to the scene and recovered the body.
The body has not been officially identified; however it appeared to match Naim’s description, police said. Police are awaiting confirmation from the Wayne County Medical Examiner’s Office. The search effort was called off, but the investigation remained ongoing.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this difficult time,” Baydoun said. “While the outcome was certainly tragic, I am heartened by the massive community turnout of residents, employees, police officers, firefighters and neighboring law enforcement agencies who stepped up to help with the search.”
More than 200 volunteers joined police officers, firefighters, and city personnel from multiple departments in a coordinated search throughout the area. The Dearborn Police and Fire departments, Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Wayne County Executive’s Office and Department of Homeland Security also helped in the search.
Police Chief Michael Guzowski also expressed his gratitude to the community and numerous law enforcement agencies, first responders, and community members who assisted in the effort.
“We have assigned a victim advocate and will continue to support the family throughout this process, ensuring they receive the care and resources they need during this incredibly difficult time,” Guzowski said.