The Austin Police Department put out a call to the public on Thursday, eager to gather any details that might lead to the whereabouts of Cristian Rangel, a 24-year-old man missing since April 8. The details were sparse but pointed to a moment, captured in a Walmart parking lot on the 5000 block of US Highway 290 Service Road Eastbound, where Rangel was last seen seated in an SUV, light-colored and indistinct according to a statement by APD.
Authorities have expressed their concern for Rangel's well-being. With his description widely circulated, they're hoping someone will recognize the missing man: a 5'9” tall Hispanic male, weighing 161 lbs, with brown hair and eyes. Notably, his attire at the time of disappearance included a red cap, light blue t-shirt, black shorts, and distinctive white Crocs brandished with red hearts. The appeal to spot Rangel is urgent as police urge anyone to surely come forward and help bring him safely home.
APD's plea has initiated a citywide alert, pushing for citizens to stay vigilant and report sightings. The light-colored SUV remains a key detail, but the make and model have yet to be determined, making it a challenging task to track down.
The police are utilizing every available resource to locate Mr. Rangel but emphasize the critical role community members can play in these situations. "If you see Mr. Rangel or know his whereabouts, please call 911 or APD’s Missing Persons Unit at 512-974-5250," implored the APD in a shared bulletin. The ethos of "it takes a village" has never been so profoundly felt, with each passing hour heightening the urgency to find Cristian Rangel and bridge him back to safety.
