A 71-year-old Lauderdale Lakes man, Vian John Avedisian, who had been missing since May 17, has been found, according to the Broward Sheriff's Office. Avedisian, who relies on a wheelchair, vanished near the 3100 block of Northwest 47th Terrace and had not been seen since around 2 p.m. that day, WSVN reported.
In the days following his disappearance, authorities issued a call for the public's assistance, providing a description of Avedisian, who stands about 6 feet tall, weighs around 180 pounds, and is recognized by his gray hair and brown eyes. The search was hampered by Avedisian's need for a wheelchair, raising concerns for his welfare among law enforcement and the community.
Details on the circumstances of his discovery were not immediately made public, but he was reported to be safe and back with his family. The Broward Sheriff's Office had employed significant resources in their search, and family members were desperate for his safe return.
The BSO had not commented further on Avedisian's condition or the events leading up to him being found. However, they did confirm the positive end to the nearly three-week search, stating that the missing senior was "found safe and unharmed," according to Local 10 News. The relief of Avedisian's loved ones was palpable, grateful for the community's support and the efforts of the detectives who brought him home.
For those with further information regarding the case or similar incidents, Broward Sheriff's Office Detective Leonard Charla remains a point of contact, and the public can still reach out to the Broward Sheriff's Office non-emergency number if needed. The close of this case underscores the importance of community vigilance and promptly reporting missing persons, especially those among the most vulnerable populations.
