Elton Duane Knowles, a 94-year-old Mesa resident, was reported missing yesterday. Knowles, afflicted by a medical condition causing confusion and ease in getting lost, was last seen driving away from his home near S. Sossaman Road and E Broadway Road, according to the Mesa Police Department. The police issued a Silver Alert, seeking assistance from the public to help safely locate the missing senior citizen.
The Silver Alert, a notification system to quickly disseminate information about missing persons—especially seniors with Alzheimer's, dementia, or other mental disabilities—went out after Knowles failed to return. He was last seen driving his black 2006 Chevrolet Avalanche, with Arizona Veteran License Plate 8714S. His last known location was in Mesa, Arizona, ZIP code 85208. Efforts to urgently track him down were complicated by his vulnerability to easily become disoriented.
Information on the Arizona Department of Public Safety's Silver Alert page describes Knowles as a white male, 5 feet 11 inches tall, weighing 185 pounds, with white hair and blue eyes. There was no description available of what he was last seen wearing or further identifying features. The public is urged to keep an eye out for Knowles, who also goes by the first name Duane, and his unique license plate.
Residents and anyone with knowledge of Knowles' whereabouts have been asked to immediately contact the Mesa Police Department at 480-644-2211. The plea for public help is to hopefully bring Mr. Knowles back safely to his home and family. In such instances, time can be a critical factor, and the community's vigilance can make a significant difference.
