Family, friends concerned about disappearance of Galt High student

A crowd of at least 50 parents and students gathered Monday evening to mark the fourth day since Galt High freshman Aaron Brooks was reported missing.

His family is concerned about his safety, but Galt police say Brooks' disappearance may have been voluntary.

"At this point, we can't categorize this as an abduction," said Galt police Officer Chris Sanford. "All indications at this point (are) that he is missing voluntarily."

However, Sanford says he can see where the Brooks' family is coming from emotionally.

"Being a parent myself, I can understand," Sanford said.

Residents assembled Monday evening at McDonald's on Pine Street to wave signs and chant, "Bring Aaron home."

On Wednesday afternoon, Brooks was with two friends at Emerald Vista Park, just east of Highway 99 when they were followed by a male, according to Sandra Loock, mother of one of Brooks' friends at Galt High. Brooks and his friends walked in different directions to their homes, Loock said, and the man followed Brooks.

However, police say Brooks and the male went to the community park together voluntarily.

A Galt High student also reported seeing Brooks on Thursday, Sanford said.

Anyone with information on the case may call Galt police at 366-7000.

Contact reporter Ross Farrow at rossf@lodinews.com.