Bay Area/ Oakland

UPDATE: Hayward Breathes Sigh of Relief as Missing 73-Year-Old Man Found Safe

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Published on January 22, 2024
UPDATE: Hayward Breathes Sigh of Relief as Missing 73-Year-Old Man Found SafeSource: CHP - Alerts

Relief swept through Hayward on Monday as 73-year-old Andrew Trujillo, who had been missing since last week, was found safe and sound. The California Highway Patrol deactivated the Silver Alert that was issued after Trujillo vanished, just two days after asking the public to aid in locating the senior citizen.

Trujillo had gone missing on January 20 around Hampton Road and Western Boulevard in Hayward, and local authorities alongside CHP ramped up their search efforts, including putting out a Silver Alert to harness the community's eyes and ears. Described as 5'5" tall and about 100 pounds, Trujillo has gray hair and brown eyes and requires a walker to move around; last seen wearing a black jacket and black camouflage pants, his disappearance triggered immediate concern due to his age and physical condition.

The Silver Alert system, similar to the Amber Alert but focused on seniors, especially those with cognitive impairments, has proven effective in rallying communities to look out for the vulnerable. That vigilance paid off in this case, with citizens likely playing a key part in Trujillo's safe return.

While details of Trujillo's condition and the circumstances of his recovery have not been released, the outcome is nonetheless a testament to the collective concern and quick action by all those who heeded the call to watch out for one of their own.