The Lambert High School grad who went missing for nearly 27 hours after going for a run at Chattahoochee Pointe Park on Monday night was "disoriented" in the woods trying to get home after believing the park’s gates would be closed, according to a statement released by the family on the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office Facebook page.

Byron Grogan was reported missing early Tuesday morning after his family discovered the 19-year-old never returned from his late-night run. A significant contingent of law enforcement and community volunteers converged on the park Tuesday to scour the area until mid-afternoon. Authorities continued their effort into the night.

At about 2 a.m. Wednesday, Grogan returned home on his ow.

The family thanked the efforts of all involved.

“We thank God that our son is alive and well,” the statement said. “We sincerely appreciate the incredible support from our family, friends, law enforcement, volunteers and entire community throughout this time. The support has been truly overwhelming.”

“We’d especially like to thank the law enforcement and fire/rescue agencies who worked tirelessly to find our son. Their response from the beginning was immediate, comprehensive and highly professional. Our community is truly blessed to have such wonderful support from our law and rescue organizations.

“We’d also like to thank the media for getting the word out so quickly. We are eternally grateful to you all.

“Byron became lost and disoriented while attempting to run home through the forest from the outer boundary of the park, after believing the park’s driveway gates would be closed before he finished his run.

“We are so happy to have him home.”

Alexander Popp contributed to this report.