The search for 81-year-old Maria Gamez, who was reported missing in San Diego, has come to an end. The San Diego Police Department posted an update confirming that Gamez has been found, expressing gratitude to all who participated in the search and spreading awareness.
Update (Final): Maria has been found. Thank you to everyone who kept an eye out for her. https://t.co/gqljthD5Yx
— San Diego Police Department (@SanDiegoPD) December 31, 2023
Previously, the San Diego Police issued an urgent call for public assistance when Gamez disappeared near 5500 University Ave. She was described as at-risk, 5 feet 2 inches tall, around 150 pounds, with grey hair and brown eyes. Notably missing in a grey knit cap, grey sweater, and blue jeans, authorities had emphasized the urgency of quickly locating her due to age and unspecified at-risk factors. In an attempt to seek vital information, the SDPD urged anyone with information to dial 911 and mentioned the case number 23502776.
The community response was felt strongly on social media and in the streets of San Diego as local residents shared the Facebook post from the SDPD and organized search efforts. Hoodline documented the outpouring of concern, noting multiple shares of the police's public appeal and the immediate action taken by locals who rallied to support the search for Maria in hopes of reuniting her with her family.
Although the specific circumstances around Gamez's disappearance and how she was ultimately located have not been released by the police, the news of her being found has undoubtedly brought relief to her family and the San Diego community.
