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Family of missing Marion County man fearful for his safety

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — A Marion County mother couldn't hold back tears as she asked the public to help bring her disabled son home Thursday.

Deputies said John Radabaugh Jr. is 48 years old but has the mental capacity of a 3-year-old.

He was last seen with family at a home in Ocklawaha on Southeast 91st Place Tuesday afternoon.

On Thursday crews searched a 5-mile radius from the home.

Deputies searched on foot with the help of K-9 units, bloodhounds and ATVs.

They also searched for Radabaugh by helicopter.

Radabaugh’s mother said they are especially desperate to find him soon because temperatures are expected to drop and it’s been raining in the area.

“He has got to be hungry. He has got to be tired. He has been out there a long time,” said Kim Radabaugh.

The family said aside from weather, they’re worried the wrong person may come in contact with him.

They said he’s very gullible and would go inside anyone’s home.

John Radabaugh’s mother said this is the third time he’s wandered off in three years, but it’s the longest he’s been gone.

The first time he was found within five minutes and the second time he was found in three hours.

John Radabaugh is described as a while male, 5 feet 3 inches tall, weighing 130 pounds.

Anyone who sees him is asked to call 911.