SLIPPERY ROCK TWP — The mother of a 3-year-old boy who went missing in woods Thursday is facing possible criminal charges in the case, state police said.

The boy was found safe about an hour later.

The child apparently wandered off from his home on Route 8 south of Branchton Road in Slippery Rock Township, and got lost in a field and woods in back of the house.

The mother, who police did not identify, notified authorities about 12:15 p.m. after she looked for but was unable to find him.

Troopers located the boy about 12:40 p.m. in a heavily-wooded area between one-quarter and one-half mile from the home.

Authorities had just called for the Slippery Rock Volunteer Fire Company to help in the search when the child was found.

Police said the 33-year-old mother could be charged with child endangerment. According to a police report, she “failed to reasonably supervise her child.”

The investigation continues, police said.