TOPEKA, Kan. — In the days leading up to today’s announcement, family and friends of Patrick Anno Jr. (also known as Patrick Crim) had been pouring their hearts out on social media, pleading for his safe return.
On Monday morning, his family shared an emotional Facebook post describing the ongoing search, writing that K9 units, aircraft, and even cadaver dogs had been deployed with no results. They invited community members to join a search party at Paradise Point near Lake Perry.
The message captured the urgency and anguish of the moment:
“They had K9 & aircrafts out today, nothing. Then had cadaver dogs out & nothing. We’re planning to all meet around 10:30 for a search party at Paradise Point! Please come home!!! We all miss you! Your kids NEED you. They’re going to start asking where you are. This ISN’T like you. Even if you wanna call someone & let someone know you’re okay! If you needed a break to just be by yourself that’s OKAY — just let someone know you’re okay. We’re all terrified & worried sick We ARE all here!! We’ve been doing EVERYTHING in our power to find you. Please come home.”
Found Safe
Just hours later, relief swept through the community when the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Patrick had been located in Kay County, Oklahoma. Authorities announced that he is safe and that the family’s fears can now be put to rest.
The Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude to all the volunteers, agencies, and community members who worked tirelessly over the past week.
A Community That Showed Up
This case unfolded in real time across social media, as hundreds shared posts, joined searches, and offered prayers for Patrick’s safety. The outpouring of concern and involvement highlighted just how deeply Topeka and surrounding communities value one another.
Today, that dedication has been rewarded with the best possible outcome: Patrick is alive and safe.
