Concern and relief echoed in Montgomery County this week following the disappearance and subsequent safe location of Brandon Smith, a 27-year-old man with autism. Initially reported missing, Smith was found unharmed, and the Montgomery County Police Department extended gratitude to the public for their assistance in the matter.
Smith's absence had triggered a Purple Alert—a response for missing individuals with intellectual, developmental disabilities, or brain injuries, offering a crucial system for those who fall outside the age criteria for Silver or Amber Alerts. Last spotted at around 5:15 p.m. on the 5400 block of McGrath Boulevard in Bethesda, described by police as wearing a black shirt and camouflage pajama bottoms, as reported by WUSA9.
His safe return was shared on their official website and serves as a reminder of how public awareness and action can truly make a difference, according to the Montgomery County Department of Police.
