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Sylar Newton, Missing Arizona 2-Year-Old, Likely Dead, Says Sheriff

Sylar Newton (Personal Photo) Personal Photo

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (CBS/KPHO/AP) Numerous search and rescue personnel continue to comb a forested area south of Flagstaff, Ariz. for a little boy missing for over a week. But police say the case of Sylar Newton is now considered a criminal investigation, as they believe the 2-year-old is dead.

PICTURES: Sylar Newton Missing

The search for Sylar began on July 25, when the Sedona Fire Dispatch received a 911 call just before 2 a.m. The caller reported that the toddler had gone missing from the Beaver Creek Campground where he was staying with his custodial family.

Investigators say they believe Sylar was kidnapped from the area of the campsite.

Yavapai County Sheriff Steve Waugh declined to name any persons of interest in the criminal investigation.

Authorities are looking into custodial issues involving the boy's adoptive family and his biological mother. Investigators want to know the relationship between the biological mother and the custodial mother, Christina Priem.

Volunteers from around the state and investigators are still searching the area where Sylar went missing.

Anyone with information about Sylar or his whereabouts is urged to contact the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office by calling 928-771-3260.

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