Catawba County officials searching for missing teen

CATAWBA COUNTY — The Catawba County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help to find a missing teenager.

According to a release, Erek Damien Uron Barnes was last seen at 7:45 p.m. on Wednesday at the intersection of Highway 16 South and Bethany Church Road in Catawba County.

Barnes is a black 19-year-old male who is 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighs 175 pounds. Barnes was last seen wearing a teal T-shirt, possibly Aeropostale brand, blue jean shorts and a red, white and black hat with "Chicago" written on the front.

According to police, Barnes left his residence on Highway 16 South in Catawba County after telling family he was walking to a Citgo gas station at the intersection of Highway 16 South and Bethany Church Road.

Barnes was last seen on camera at the gas station in question purchasing cigars. Authorities said Barnes left that location on foot, his direction of travel is unknown.

Barnes' family has not heard from or seen him since he left home last Wednesday. If anyone has seen Barnes or knows of his whereabouts, please contact Catawba County Communications at 828-464-3112.

WSOC