News Summary
Jackson County legislator Manny Abarca IV and his young son, Luca, have been reported missing. Abarca’s wife, Alexis, filed the report expressing concern for their safety. Despite contact with authorities, Abarca’s and Luca’s whereabouts remain unverified. Alexis, who is the primary caregiver, fears for Luca’s health needs amid ongoing police investigations. The disappearance has raised alarms within the community as efforts continue to locate the pair.
Shawnee, Kansas – Jackson County legislator Manny Abarca IV and his 2-year-old son, Manuel Abarca V, commonly known as Luca, have been reported missing. The report was filed by Abarca’s wife, Alexis Garcia Abarca, who last saw her son on the evening of May 28, and her husband the following afternoon on May 29. Alexis is reportedly in a state of desperation about her son’s safety, as Luca is ill and requires medication. She has identified herself as the “preferred and primary caregiver” for both children she shares with Abarca.
In response to the situation, a police report was submitted by Alexis, leading to the Shawnee Police Department issuing a missing persons alert. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation confirmed that Abarca was last seen on May 29, while Luca was last seen the day prior. As of Monday afternoon, both individuals remain listed as missing on the KBI’s website, and the investigation by the Shawnee Police Department is ongoing.
Authorities reported that while they have made contact with Abarca, they have been unable to verify his and Luca’s safety through direct, in-person means. The police have indicated that, at this time, no immediate danger has been established regarding their disappearance.
On the same day Abarca was last seen, there were previous reports of a domestic dispute occurring at his father’s residence. Early Monday morning, Abarca sent out an email asserting that the missing persons report was filed in error and claimed that both he and Luca were safe and healthy. He also participated in a virtual Jackson County Legislature meeting the same day, despite not being present at several earlier committee meetings. Additionally, Abarca was active on social media and engaged in a Zoom meeting on May 30, where he addressed Jackson County budget issues.
Manny Abarca, 37, is currently in his first term representing the 1st District in the Jackson County Legislature. He previously served on the Kansas City Public Schools board. Recently, Jackson County Executive Frank White Jr. initiated a misconduct investigation involving Abarca due to allegations of abusive treatment toward county employees.
Despite Alexis’ filings with police, she reports that she has not heard from either her husband or son since last week and has expressed deep concern for their safety. The investigation by police is still active as they work to independently confirm the well-being of both Abarca and Luca. Authorities continue to urge the community to share any relevant information that could assist in locating the missing pair.
The case has sparked concern not only within the Abarca family but also among local residents, emphasizing the need for vigilance and support during these troubling circumstances. As the investigation unfolds, more details are expected to be revealed to shed light on the whereabouts of Manny Abarca and his son, Luca.
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Additional Resources
- KMBC News: Manny Abarca Missing with Son
- Wikipedia: Missing Person
- Fox4KC: Police Searching for Manny Abarca and Son
- Google Search: Manny Abarca
- KCTV5: Manny Abarca and Son Reported Missing
- Google Scholar: Manny Abarca
- Kansas City Star: Missing Person Alert for Abarca
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Missing Persons
- KSHB: Police Searching for Missing Toni and Jalen Wilson
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
