EAU CLAIRE, Wis. — The Eau Claire Police Department (ECPD) said it is looking for Colin T. Robaidek, 16. 

Robaidek is 6-foot-1 and weighs 190 pounds. He has blonde hair and blue eyes. He was last seen wearing a black sweatshirt and black sweatpants; he had a black North Face backpack. He was riding a dark grey Trek bike.

Police said he left his house on April 17, and has not been in contact with friends or family since. He did not go to school that day, nor did he return home. His parents contacted police April 17.

Police said Robaidek was seen on video leaving his home in 2200 block of Windsong Court in the Shawtown area of Eau Claire, on his bike that day. He was later seen on a business security camera on American Boulevard at 12:58 p.m. He was heading east, according to police. Police said he was alone. 

ECPD said Robaidek left a note “stating his intention to voluntarily leave home.” His parents said this behavior is uncharacteristic, according to police.

His parents said Robaidek has made concerning statements of “unease over stress” he was undergoing. His parents told police those statements made them concerned.

Police are searching bike trails, wooded areas and waters. Multiple law enforcement agencies are assisting in the investigation. Drone searches and canine tracking have been planned.

Police asked that people in the community “be vigilant and report information.” ECPD also asked residents to review any home security footage.

ECPD said bringing Robaidek home is its priority.

“Our Eau Claire Area School District teachers, coaches, administrators and other school staff love and care for the kids we serve. We also are a close-knit team of educators and peers who support each other daily. Our district and school staff are assisting family, friends and multiple law enforcement agencies in any way we are able in the search for Colin Robaidek,” Michael Johnson, Eau Claire Area School District’s superintendent, said in a statement. “We are offering additional counseling supports to any of our students and staff as needed. Please keep Colin and his family in your thoughts during this difficult time.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact ECPD at 715-839-4972.