Emanuel was last seen in Colorado Springs, Colorado on May 21, 2009. He was abducted by his non-custodial parents, Carmen Aguilera and Benito Guzman. Photographs and vital statistics for both parents are posted below this case summary. Felony warrants were issued for them on May 22, 2009. Emanuel and his parents may still be in the local area, or they may be in Mexico. They may be traveling in a brown 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee with the Colorado license plate number 781 SLH or a tan 2004 Ford pickup truck with the Colorado license plate number 491 SKZ.

At the time they abducted Emanuel, Benito and Aguilera were under investigation by the state Department of Human Services (DHS) in connection with an April 2009 incident where Emanuel was severely burned, suffering second- and third-degree burns on both hands. After the burning incident he was briefly taken into protective custody, but released back to his parents as the investigation continued. After they failed to appear in court over the custody issue, warrants were issued for Benito and Aguilera's arrest and custody of Emanuel was transferred to the state Department of Human Services. Aguilera's other three children were taken into DHS custody.

Due to the circumstances, Emanuel is considered to be endangered. His whereabouts are unknown and his case remains unsolved.