(NewsNation) — The parents of Jarrett Brooks, an Arizona teenager who vanished more than a year ago, say they believe their son is still alive and was likely picked up by someone after leaving their home.

In a Sunday interview on “NewsNation Prime,” Laura and Brian Brooks expressed hope that multiple reported sightings of Jarrett across several states indicate he’s still out there.

“Of course it gives us hope,” Laura Brooks said. “It gives us hope that people know his face, and they’re looking for him.”

Security footage of Jarrett Brooks

Jarrett Brooks, now 17, disappeared on July 4, 2023, after being grounded for damaging a family vehicle. Security footage showed him taking a handgun from the family’s gun safe before leaving.

Perhaps the most stunning piece of evidence was an image taken from the home security camera that showed Jarrett placing the handgun into his waistband.

Brian Brooks dismissed initial concerns that his son might harm himself, citing Jarrett’s familiarity with firearms and love of hunting. “That wasn’t the mindset of Jarrett. He’s not that kid,” he said.

The parents firmly believe Jarrett was picked up by someone after search dogs lost his scent in a nearby pasture. Laura Brooks noted the area had been extensively searched without any sign of her son.

Who was Jarrett Brooks?

Jarrett Brooks was known for his big smile and laugh, according to his father, Brian Brooks.

“[He was] the family clown,” Brian said. “He has an incredible sense of humor. He has an infectious, goofy laugh.”

Jarrett was homeschooled with his siblings but was, in many ways, still a typical teenager. He played baseball, wrestled and was always on the go.

“In the summer, he was always working on a ranch,” said Laura Brooks. “Swimming, going to the swimming pool, golfing, going to the creek with his friends.”

Like many teenagers, sometimes Jarrett also got in trouble. One of those times happened the night before he disappeared when he was grounded for damaging one of the family’s vehicles.

Jarrett Brooks case: Family addresses rumors

Responding to online speculation about potential abuse at home, Brian Brooks called such allegations “totally false,” stating that child protective services had investigated and found “this is a loving home.”

The couple concluded with a message for their son: “We love you kid. We just want to know you’re safe and you’re happy wherever you are,” Laura Brooks said.

Authorities are now treating the case as a possible homicide investigation due to the lack of confirmed sightings in over a year.

He is 6 feet tall with brown eyes and blond hair. He was last seen wearing a black T-shirt with “America” across the front, blue jeans, cowboy boots and a baseball hat. Anyone with information on Jarrett Brooks should contact the Navajo County Sheriff’s Office (Arizona) at 1-928-524-4050.