Perhaps. Let's say, he actually felt guilt over what happened. He knew what he was facing, couldn't live with himself, and decided to return home one more time to see his parents. Maybe they tried to talk him out of it, but failed to do so and decide to have a couple of normal days to just live their son as they knew him, and he heads out.
When he doesn't return, they know he's went through with his plan and report him missing. Why wouldn't they help look for him? I can't imagine just leaving him to the elements. And similarly, I can't imagine not knowing where he was and not pleading for him to come in through all means. I don't think I could be resigned to just leave it as it is.