Contributed commentary by Clarksville Police spokesman Scott Beaubien:
The Clarksville Police Department would like to provide additional information regarding the search efforts that led to locating 3-year-old Tyler Hall safely.
During the investigation, the residence had been searched multiple times by responding personnel. Sergeant Fatula and Detective D. Smith conducted an additional detailed search of the residence, ultimately leading to the discovery of Tyler in the attic.
The attic was accessed by an attached wall ladder that led into a very confined space, not designed as a standard walk-in attic. Once inside, the area offered only limited room to move, requiring an average-sized adult to crouch in order to navigate through it. The center of the space was largely obstructed by the home’s HVAC ductwork, further reducing mobility. The attic itself was dark, dusty, and filled with electrical wiring, ductwork, and thick blown insulation.
Tyler was ultimately located at the farthest section of the attic from the entrance, lying between the rafters. He was behind additional ductwork, fully concealed from view. Given the conditions within the attic and the manner in which he was positioned, he was extremely difficult to locate until Det. Smith was right up on him.
Throughout the search efforts, officers repeatedly called out to Tyler while searching the residence and surrounding area. Why Tyler did not respond to officers calling for him remains unknown at this time.
Tyler released from hospital, doing well
After being located, Tyler was evaluated by Montgomery County EMS and transported to Vanderbilt Clarksville as a precautionary measure. He was released from the hospital this morning at approximately 1:30 a.m. and is doing well.
| PREVIOUSLY: After 8-hour search, missing 3-year-old boy found hiding in attic
“I am truly moved by the outpouring of support from the citizens of Clarksville and the many first responder agencies who responded without hesitation,” said Chief Ty Burdine. “The way this community comes together in moments like this, whether it’s a missing child or a natural disaster, is something you don’t take for granted. It is humbling and an honor to serve a community that shows up for one another the way Clarksville does. Even after multiple searches of the residence, our personnel remained committed and continued searching every possible area until Tyler was found safely. Their persistence, professionalism, and teamwork made all the difference. We are incredibly grateful for every agency, volunteer, business, and citizen who stepped forward to help. The support we saw today reflects the very best of who we are as a community.”
Agencies across region responded
We sincerely thank the following agencies and organizations for their assistance and support:
- Clarksville Police Department
- Tennessee Bureau of Investigation
- Montgomery County EMA
- Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office
- Montgomery County Emergency Medical Service
- Clarksville Fire Rescue
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Fort Campbell Criminal Investigation Division
- Giles County K9
- Robertson County K9/EMA
- Sumner County K9/EMA
- Department of the Treasury
- Tennessee Department of Corrections/Probation and Parole
- Department of Children’s Services
- Youth Villages (Foster Care)
We also want to recognize the tremendous efforts of the E911 call takers and CPD dispatchers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, fielding calls, coordinating information, and supporting first responders throughout the incident.
Residents, businesses, nonprofits jumped in to help
We also want to extend a special thank you to the citizens who showed up in large numbers wanting to assist in the search efforts. The outpouring of concern, support, and willingness to help demonstrated the strength and compassion of the Clarksville community.
Additionally, we want to recognize and thank those who generously provided food and drinks to officers and first responders working the perimeter and search efforts throughout the day:
- Yaipak
- Luigi’s Pizza
- Numerous caring citizens from our community
Your kindness, support, and willingness to help during a stressful situation meant more than words can express.
Clarksville is a strong community, and today’s outcome is a reminder of what can be accomplished when people come together for the safety and well-being of a child.
Scott Beaubien
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