Search for missing 16-year-old ongoing around Black River, friend charged (UPDATED)

ELYRIA — The search is still on for a 16-year-old boy who reportedly went into the Black River early on Thursday morning and did not come out. According to a release from Elyria police, Vincent Pabon, 16, had not been located as of 6 p.m. and he had been officially entered as a missing person, after a friend reported he had fallen into the river some time earlier today. Pabon is 6'1 and weighs 150 pounds, police said. Police said Pabon was walking along a path leading to the river near the East Falls with a friend, Jacob Rosado, 24, in the early morning hours Thursday after the pair apparently spent the night in the area. Both had been drinking alcohol. At some point, Rosado told police, Pabon fell into the Black River. "Rosado told investigators he attempted to assist but also fell into the water. Rosado was able to make it to nearby rocks and exit the river, but stated he could no longer see or hear Pabon," the release said. Rosado reported the incident at 7:58 a.m. and Elyria fire began searching for Pabon immediately after, quickly receiving assistance from neighboring agencies. Rescue personnel were still searching the banks of the Black River and the adjacent woods as of 6 p.m. Thursday, with the help of thermal imaging drones and K-9s, Elyria Police Capt. Bill Lantz said. Elyria police are investigating the circumstances surrounding Pabon's disappearance, but based on preliminary findings the department has charged Rosado with felony tampering with evidence and contributing to the unruliness of a minor, a misdemeanor. The release said that additional charges may be considered as the investigation continues. According to Lorain County Common Pleas Court records, Rosado was charged with gross sexual imposition in 2021. He pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of criminal enticement, which refers to a person enticing a child under fourteen years of age to accompany them in any manner, such as into a vehicle. "Our hearts are with Vincent's family during this incredibly difficult time," said Lantz, the Public Information Officer for Elyria police. "This is a challenging and complex search, and we remain fully committed to locating him. We are utilizing every available resource and deeply appreciate the continued support from the many first responder agencies assisting in this effort." Contact Owen MacMillan at (440) 329-7123 or omacmillan@chroniclet.com.