UPDATE: ACCORDING TO AUTHORITIES, KADEN C. KERSTE HAS BEEN LOCATED, AND HE IS SAFE.

An area law-enforcement agency is asking for help from the public.

According to the Ray County Sheriff’s Department, it is attempting to locate 16-year-old Kaden C. Kerste, who was last seen across the street from the Casey’s General store at/near Polo Christian Church at approximately 5 p.m. on Thursday, March 17.

Kerste is approximately 5-foot-10 and 155 pounds, with blue eyes and dirty blonde hair. He was last seen wearing a hoodie and pants and carrying a backpack and a small duffle bag. Kerste also may be in possession of a bicycle.

The sheriff’s office is actively pursuing leads in regard to his whereabouts and working with multiple agencies and entities.

If you or someone you know has seen or heard from Kerste, you are urged to contact the Ray County Sheriff’s Dispatch Center at (816) 776-2000.

Photo courtesy of the Ray County Sheriff’s Department.