The dam broke. The boy’s face crumpled, and he burst into loud sobs.

“My mommy won’t wake up,” he cried. “I called her and called her, but she didn’t open her eyes.”

Janet’s stomach twisted. This was no lost-child scenario—this was an emergency.

She took a slow breath. “Alright. Can you show me where you live?”

He nodded, hiccuping between tears.

Janet rose quickly, radioing dispatch. “This is Officer Miller, K9 unit. Possible medical emergency. Following a juvenile to residence. Stand by for address.”