Missing Jordanian athlete found safe in Illinois after leaving Texas dorm: Police

A Jordanian athlete who traveled to Houston to participate in a soccer tournament featuring competitors with intellectual disabilities, was found safe in Illinois Tuesday after disappearing from his dorm at Rice University over the weekend, police said.

Rabe'e Ata Juma'a Alqaq, 24, had just arrived at the campus Saturday around 9 p.m. for this year's Genuine Cup, which features players from over 53 countries, according to Rice University Police Department.

Alqaq, who has cerebral palsy, told his dormmates around midnight Sunday that he wanted to take a walk, according to investigators. 

He missed a breakfast and was not in his room later Sunday, police said.

On Tuesday, Alqaq, who police does not speak English, was found in Bridgeview, Illinois, safe, the police said. He contacted the Rice University Police Department after seeing news reports that he had been reported missing, the school said.

"Authorities determined that he traveled to the Chicago area by bus of his own accord, and no foul play is suspected. The reason for his departure remains unknown and will be part of the investigation if and when he returns to Houston," the school said in a statement.

Representatives from the Genuine Cup, didn't immediately respond for comment about the situation.

Rice University PD said it was in contact with the Jordan Consulate of Texas, Illinois law enforcement and Alqaq's team about his whereabouts and are working to bring him back to Texas.