On Wednesday, October 3 the Knox County Sheriff's Office issued a statement that Avery Smith, 23, of Hope was found safely. Smith was reported missing by his family on September 23. Avery was located on the evening of October 2. He was out of state, and located by law enforcement.

The report states that he is in good health. He was successfully reunited with his family October 3. The Knox County Sheriff's Office and the family want to thank all agencies and persons involved that helped us safely reunited Avery with his family.

As of Sept. 27, the Knox County Sheriff's Office has received, it said, information from reliable witnesses who believe they saw Avery Smith, 23, of Hope  with two people the day after he was reported as missing on the beach in Cape Elizabeth.

The Knox County Sheriff's Office and the family of Mr. Smith are still concerned for his well being and are seeking the help from the public; in particular, the two people that may have been with Avery that day on the beach.  Any information to assist the Sheriff's Office can contact Detective Dwight Burtis at 207-594-0429 ext. 722.   

The Knox County Sheriff's Office is searching for a person reported missing from Hope. At approximately 8 p.m., Sept. 23, deputies were called to a home in Hope after a family reported not seeing their loved one for more than a day, according to a news release.

Information gathered there has investigators believing that Avery Smith, 23, of Hope, is despondent. Smith has ties to the areas of Rockland, Peaks Island and Cape Elizabeth. At approximately 10:10 p.m. last night, Smith's vehicle was found in Cape Elizabeth.

A search of the area by several public safety agencies is being conducted but so far has not turned anything up. The Knox County Sheriff's Office is concerned for Smith's wellbeing and seeking the assistance of the local public for any information leading to his whereabouts.

Smith is described as 6-foot, 1-inch tall and 170 pounds with black hair and green eyes. If anyone has information, call the Knox County Sheriff's Office at 207-593-9132.

There is no photo yet available of Avery. This story will be updated when more details become available.