Justin White may experience the surprise of his 10-year life when he’s reunited with his best friend, Goblin, his German shepherd.

His mother Christina White said someone took Goblin was taken their neighborhood March 10, leaving her son withdrawn and upset.

After news reports of the missing dog Tuesday, Mach 19, she said a man returned Goblin to their home this afternoon.

She plans to let Goblin greet Justin when he comes home from school.

“Justin is going to be super excited,” White said as her voice cracked with emotion.

Thank you to all of our media partners who helped spread the word and brought Goblin back.

EARLIER

A 10-year-old Rutherford County boy is heart-broken after someone stole his German shepherd named Goblin.

Mother Christina White said her son has Asperger syndrome, a sensory disorder and ADHD.

“Goblin has been his lifeline for the past two years,” White said. “That dog goes everywhere with us.”

Rutherford County Sheriff’s Detective Ty Downing said a video showed a man putting Goblin into the back seat of a white Honda Civic March 10 on Rucker Road in Christiana.

White said her son is withdrawn since someone stole Goblin, the dog who followed her son and accompanied the family everywhere.

“He gets off the bus from school and goes and lies in his bed,” White said. “That was his best friend. The dog slept with him. I couldn’t get that boy held tight enough. It’s been rough.” 

She pleaded with the man who took Goblin to “bring him home. He’s a family member. He’s not just a dog.”

People who have information about Goblin, his location or the man accused of taking him are asked to call Detective Downing at 615-904-3022.