Missing 86-Year-Old Omaha Man with Dementia Found Safe

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) — An 86-year-old Omaha man with dementia who was reported missing Thursday evening has been found safe, the Nebraska State Patrol confirmed Friday morning.

William Anderson was reported missing by Omaha Police at approximately 9 a.m. Friday, prompting an endangered missing advisory. By 11 a.m., authorities announced that Anderson had been located unharmed.

Anderson, who suffers from dementia, was last seen leaving his home Thursday evening. The Nebraska State Patrol issued a public alert and coordinated search efforts to locate him.

“Great news! Mr. Anderson has been located and is safe! Thanks to all who helped spread the word,” the Nebraska State Patrol posted on social media. The agency canceled the endangered missing advisory shortly after his discovery.

Authorities did not disclose specific details about where Anderson was found or the circumstances of his recovery. However, they expressed gratitude to the public and law enforcement for their assistance in the search.

Dementia-related missing person cases are not uncommon, with the Alzheimer's Association reporting that six in 10 individuals with the condition will wander at least once. Quick public response and coordinated efforts are often critical in ensuring their safe return.

The Nebraska State Patrol urged families with loved ones who have dementia to consider safety measures such as GPS tracking devices and identification bracelets to prevent similar incidents.