The Disappearance of James Cole

Name: James Cole
Age: 24 years old
Last Seen: August 31, 2025
Location: Flint Hills Trail, Herington Kansas
Status: Still missing

Case Information

24 year old James Cole was last seen in Herington, Kansas on August 31, 2025. He disappeared after starting the Flint Hills Trail that morning.

Disappearance

Around 7:15am on August 31, 2025, James Cole left his family home in Herington, Kansas. He was driving his silver 1999 Ford F150.

James was supposed to be heading to work, but never arrived. 

Investigation

Around 8:00 am on August 31, 2025, James set off on the Flint Hills Nature Trail and walked east. He had no jacket, food, or water with him.

James was tracked to 2800 Avenue and US Highway 56, located between Herington and Delavan. Bloodhounds then tracked him to Burdick before losing his scent.

He has extended family near Emporia, though it’s unclear whether he was traveling there.

James does not have his cell phone or wallet with him, and has no history of addiction or mental health issues.

Searches by law enforcement were conducted with the help of K9s and a drone, but no further clues as to his whereabouts have been found.

Appearance

James has strawberry blonde hair and blue eyes. He stands 5’11 tall and weighs 130 pounds. He was last seen wearing a red shirt and blue jeans.

Investigating Agency

If you have any information regarding the disappearance of James Cole please contact the Herington Police Department at (785) 258-2227, or the Kansas Bureau of Investigation at (785) 296-4017.

Tips can also be submitted online.

Resources & Further Information

James Cole – KBI Missing Persons
Search Continues For James Cole – KVOE
Hunt For Missing Herington Man Still Underway – Abilene-RC