The Long Beach community breathed a collective sigh of relief as the Long Beach Police Department confirmed that Filibert H. Cuesta, the 77-year-old man reported missing since July 13, was found safe in Long Beach on July 14. The LBPD announced Cuesta's safe return, ending a brief but urgent search effort for the at-risk senior who is new to the area and suffers from medical and cognitive conditions that may cause disorientation.
Mr. Cuesta disappeared after he was last observed leaving his living facility in the 2000 block of East Broadway. He was walking in a westerly direction along Broadway, and although his intended destination remains undisclosed, the fact he lacked a cell phone, vehicle, or tracking device, and potentially wandered with a finite sum of cash in his possession, underlined the acute urgency to locate him. His vulnerability was heightened because of his medical state and lack of familiarity with the community, which galvanized local authorities and residents in the search.
The description provided by the LBPD's press release highlighted Cuesta as standing 5’10”, weighing approximately 170 pounds, with brown eyes and a mix of bald and gray hair, last seen wearing a black baseball hat with yellow letters, a navy blue button-up shirt, and navy blue jeans. Urging the public to come forward with any information, the police activated a crucial channel between the community and local law enforcement.
Local authorities mobilized quickly after Mr. Cuesta’s disappearance showcasing the efficiency of their response protocols. The department's Missing Persons Detail alongside the Police Dispatch leveraged both public contributions and investigative techniques to facilitate a swift reunion, which speaks to the strength of communal ties and shared concern for our most vulnerable neighbors.
For any further updates on this case or to provide assistance regarding other missing individuals, the Long Beach Police Department continues to encourage community members to reach out through their established lines of communication.
