The Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office is continuing a search for missing 16-year-old Tyler Christensen, but a sheriff’s office spokeswoman said it appears the teen may have left on his own.

in a press release issued Tuesday, spokeswoman Shari Ireton said that information gathered during the investigation indicates Christensen made plans to leave the area and that he left his home on his own volition.

Detectives would still like to learn of his whereabouts and ensure that he is safe, Ireton said.

Christensen was last seen one week ago — on Tuesday, April 19 — at around 6:30 p.m. in the Beverly Park area wearing a blue t-shirt and blue shorts. He stated that he was going to attend a youth group meeting at a church in the 4700 block of 116th Street Southwest.

Evidence indicates Christensen actually went the opposite direction. He did not arrive at the church, nor did he return to his home in unincorporated Edmonds. His family reported him missing around 3:15 the morning of April 20.

Christensen has no runaway history and his disappearance is considered suspicious because he has strong ties to his family and church.

Christensen is 5-foot-11 and 145 pounds with blue eyes and light brown hair in a buzz cut. He may have a dark colored back pack. If you see him, you are asked to call 9-1-1 or contact the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office.