The search for a missing 79-year-old North Carolina man with dementia has intensified in Atlanta. Charles R. Ellis Sr., last seen last Saturday, has prompted a Mattie's Call—the state's emergency alert for vulnerable adults—in hopes of aiding his safe return. FOX 5 Atlanta reports that Ellis was driving a white 2013 Kia Optima with a North Carolina license plate number VDF 3034, last spotted southbound on Interstates 75/85 near GA 166.
According to authorities, Ellis was attempting to follow his son when he was separated from him on the highway. His car was later sighted heading north on I-85 at mile marker 150 at about 7 p.m., but there have been no further sightings since that time. The Atlanta Police Department is seeking the public's assistance and urges anyone with information to come forward, Atlanta News First stated.
Ellis, who was diagnosed with dementia in June of 2024, is described as standing 5 feet, 11 inches tall, weighing around 250 pounds, and is bald with brown eyes. He was last observed wearing a light-colored t-shirt and blue jeans. The situation is especially pressing given Ellis' condition, which can lead to confusion and difficulty in navigating even familiar settings.
The local community is on alert, and the police are fielding multiple resources to bring Ellis home safely. "If anyone has information on Ellis’ whereabouts or has seen him, call 911 or the Atlanta Police Department communications section at 404-658-6666," implores the public safety notice issued by authorities, as noted by Atlanta News First.
