Edwin's relatives said he hasn't accepted the fact that his father died months ago of AIDS RELATED VIDEO CNN's Maria Hinojosa examines the unusual tale of Edwin Sabillon. (June 30) Windows Media 28K 80K

June 30, 1999
Web posted at: 6:35 p.m. EDT (2235 GMT)

In this story: Story of trek is true, aunt says Compassion at the core of the Big Apple RELATED STORIES, SITES

NEW YORK (CNN) -- Authorities in New York City were uncertain Wednesday about what they should do with a young boy from Central America who spun a tale of an incredible journey to find his father.

New York's top law enforcement official appeared more concerned than angry about the boy, who made-up much of his story.

"We just want what is best for him now," said Police Commissioner Howard Safir.

Edwin Sabillon Vasquez, 13, drew wide media attention and prompted a vast manhunt when he was discovered alone by a New York cabdriver. The child told officials that he had traveled by himself from Honduras to New York in hopes of finding his only living relative, his father.

But Miami relatives of the boy said he is a depressed and confused runaway who has not accepted the fact that his father died months ago of AIDS.

Edwin's grandmother holds a picture of her son, Edwin's father, Grevis Sabillon

Story of trek is true, aunt says

In a phone interview Wednesday, his aunt, Norma Sabillon, said the boy's story about traveling alone on foot, on bus, and by hitchhiking from Honduras to Miami is true. Sabillon said the boy went to Miami to join his father's relatives after his father's funeral in Honduras.

She said the Edwin ran away to New York because he was unable to accept that his father was dead, and the boy wanted to search for his father. The family has requested that Edwin be returned to them.

Sabillon also said Edwin was initially told his mother had died in a mudslide, in an effort to shield the boy from the truth that his mother had abandoned him. Edwin later was told that his mother was alive, Sabillon said.

Compassion at the core of the Big Apple

Does the cabdriver who found Edwin lost in the Bronx feel conned? Not at all he says.

"I think it says that we as New Yorkers have a lot of caring in our hearts," said Jose Basora . "It means we want to care for a young child's life."

New York City officials are trying to determine whether Edwin, discovered roaming around New York in search of his father, should be returned to his relatives in Miami, said Samantha Lugo, a spokeswoman for Mayor Rudy Giuliani.

Lugo said city welfare officials are reviewing the family's request and will return the boy to them in Miami if they are determined to be suitable custodians.

Meanwhile, New York officials have asked the Immigration and Naturalization Service to allow Edwin, whom they believe is in the United States illegally, to remain in the country.

From Correspondent Maria Hinojosa

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