Authorities in Texas are asking for the public’s help in locating a 10-year-old boy who reportedly ran away while in Child Protective Services’ custody eight months ago.

KTRK reported that Ma’Lik Bates was last seen on June 21 on the 6300 block of Rosemary Lane in Houston. Officials said the agency was caring for the boy at the time and that he’s possibly with his mother, Latisha Bates. It is unclear when CPS reported his disappearance or what led police to issue a public call-to-action eight months later.

Police described Ma’Lik as being 3 feet tall, weighing 40 pounds, and having brown eyes and black hair.

This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information regarding Ma’Lik Bates’ whereabouts is urged to call Houston Police Department Patrol at 713-884-3131 or the Houston Police Missing Persons Division at 832-394-1840.

[Featured image: Ma’Lik Bates/Houston Police Department]