when the whole town accuse somebody, but he has no clue of what happened, then any story offered from someone he could trust- your investingators?-became his story.
So sorry for your son, but in this case, I'm afraid there might be another son missing also-Zack?
My only question is how he went camping without his tent? what camping gear, except the stove, was on site? and what happened finally with this sleepy bag/mattress they found?
peace