In a dramatic turn of events that gripped the NSW Central Coast community, the missing 14-year-old son of former Sydney Roosters star James Maloney has been found safe following an intensive overnight search.
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Kade Maloney disappeared from his family’s Green Point home in the early hours of Sunday morning, sparking immediate concern. The teenager was last seen at 10:00 p.m. on Saturday. CCTV footage later revealed that he purchased a train ticket at Gosford station at 1:51 a.m. on Sunday.
The search intensified as his parents, James and Jess Maloney, took to social media with urgent appeals for public assistance. Their concern was heightened as Kade had taken his father’s phone, making direct contact with James impossible.
Community response and police action
NSW Police launched an extensive search operation, focusing on the area between the Central Coast and Penrith, where it was believed Kade might be headed. The community’s response was swift, with residents and social media users joining forces to share information and assist in the search efforts.
The family’s recent transition added another layer of complexity to the situation. The Maloneys had been in the process of relocating from Townsville to Sydney, following James Maloney’s departure from his role as assistant coach with the North Queensland Cowboys. This marked a new chapter for the family, who had previously lived in France during James’ stint with Catalans Dragons in the French league, part of the UK Super League.
Relief and gratitude
Late Sunday night, the tension broke when Jess Maloney confirmed through social media that Kade had been located and was safe with family friends. “Thank you to everyone who has helped to find him, offered support, and shared this post to get it out to as many people as possible,” she wrote, expressing the family’s profound relief and gratitude.
NSW Police echoed these sentiments, thanking both the media and the community for their instrumental role in locating the teenager. “Great news! A 14-year-old boy reported missing from Green Point has been located safe and well,” their statement confirmed.
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James Maloney, NRL icon
James Maloney, a rugby league icon, enjoyed an illustrious 11-year NRL career, playing for several prominent clubs including the Melbourne Storm, New Zealand Warriors, Sydney Roosters, Cronulla Sharks, and Penrith Panthers. His notable achievements include securing premiership victories with the Roosters in 2013 and the Sharks in 2016, along with a grand final appearance with the Warriors in 2011.
Published 23-December-2024