Missing Person Located Thanks to Deputies' Quick Response and Technology 

December 26, 2024 – Los Angeles County, CA – Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department officials report that on December 23, 2024, at approximately 7:30 p.m., deputies from the Lost Hills Station responded to a missing person call. The missing individual, a 78-year-old male who suffers from dementia, had left his residence at approximately 4:30 p.m. to retrieve the mail but failed to return.

The temperature was 48 degrees and dropping. Deputies swiftly initiated a search and rescue operation, broadcasting a description of the missing person over the radio and entering his information into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) missing persons database. The Homicide Bureau Missing Persons Unit and the Lost Hills Search and Rescue Unit were also notified.

Utilizing advanced technology, deputies deployed several FAA certified Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) drones equipped with infrared capabilities to scour the area. At approximately 8:50 p.m., a UAS located the missing person lying in a field of thick brush about a quarter mile away from his residence. Fortunately, he had only sustained minor abrasions from a fall and was transported to a local hospital for treatment and further evaluation.

This successful rescue operation highlights the importance of swift action, teamwork, and innovative technology in locating missing persons, especially those who are vulnerable due to medical conditions. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is committed to protecting and serving its communities, and this incident demonstrates the department's dedication to ensuring public safety.

Source & photos: Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department