The massive manhunt for the Jordanian athlete who was missing from the Rice University ended with good news. The university officials confirmed that 24-year-old Rabe'e Ata Juma'a Alqaq was found safe in Illinois, according to Houston Chronicle.
The athlete had traveled to Houston to participate in the Genuine Cup soccer tournament for athletes with disabilities. Rabe'e Ata Juma'a Alqaq was reported to be missing after leaving his accommodation early Sunday.
His disappearance quickly drew widespread attention, with authorities, university officials, and his teammates searching for answers with people searching 'Jordanian athlete missing' on the internet.
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Jordanian athlete missing case ends after athlete contacts police
According to Rice University, Alqaq was finally found in Bridgeview, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago, after traveling there by bus. University officials said he made the trip by his own choice, though the reason behind his departure remains unclear.
"The reason for his departure remains unknown and will be part of the investigation if and when he returns to Houston," the university said in a statement.
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After arriving in Illinois, Alqaq reportedly came across media reports about the Jordanian athlete missing case. Realizing that authorities and his team were searching for him, he contacted the Rice University Police Department.
Rice University coordinating his return
Rice University said it is now working with local law enforcement in Illinois, the Jordanian Consulate in Texas, and Alqaq's soccer team to help him safely return to Houston.
Officials have not indicated that any criminal activity was involved in the incident. Instead, they emphasized that the athlete is safe and that efforts are focused on bringing him back to his team.
The university has not shared additional details about why he decided to leave Houston without informing anyone.
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What happened before the disappearance?
Before the Jordanian athlete missing case unfolded, Alqaq had been staying with teammates while attending the Genuine Cup tournament.
According to his coach and fellow players, he told them late Saturday night that he was going out for a walk. However, he never returned to his room.
When he failed to appear for breakfast the following morning, concern quickly grew, prompting officials to report him missing.
The search attracted significant attention as authorities worked to determine his whereabouts.
Athlete was in Houston for the Genuine Cup
Alqaq traveled from Jordan to compete in the Genuine Cup, an international soccer tournament designed for athletes with disabilities.
The 24-year-old has cerebral palsy and was representing his team at the event, which continues through August 1. It remains unclear whether he will be able to participate in the remainder of the tournament following the unexpected trip to Illinois.
Investigation continues despite safe recovery
Although the Jordanian athlete missing case has been resolved with Alqaq being found safe, officials say questions remain.
Rice University indicated that the reason for his decision to travel from Houston to Illinois will be examined once he returns.
For now, authorities are focused on ensuring his safe journey back while coordinating with his team and Jordanian officials.
The outcome has brought relief to teammates, organizers, and everyone who had been following the search, even as the circumstances surrounding his departure remain unknown.
