Sonoma County deputies are in an urgent search for an 80-year-old Bodega Bay man with dementia who walked away from his home last night. He was last seen around 8:25 p.m. near Windy Lane and State Highway 1, wearing a grey hoodie and sweatpants and carrying a grey comforter and pillow. Authorities say he is white and are asking the public in and around Bodega Bay to keep an eye out and report any sightings right away.
According to SFGate, the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office has identified the missing man as George Ginochio, 80, and said he has been diagnosed with dementia. The notice, which was distributed by Bay City News Service, includes the clothing description and the items Ginochio had with him when he left.
How to report a sighting
If you see Ginochio or have any information about where he might be, contact the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office Dispatch Center at (707) 565-2121, according to the agency's directory. If someone appears to be in immediate danger or is injured, call 911 and give dispatch a brief location and description.
Why dementia cases can be urgent
Wandering is common and can be dangerous for people living with dementia. The Alzheimer's Association notes that many people with dementia will wander at least once, and that prompt reporting and having a recent photo ready improve the chances of finding someone safely. Caregivers and neighbors are encouraged to keep identification and recent photos handy for police and to share any cellphone or location information with investigators when it is available.
What officials are asking locals to do
The sheriff's office is asking anyone who might have seen Ginochio to check doorbell and security cameras, nearby trails and shoreline access points, and to report any tips to dispatch, according to the public notice. SFGate published the notice from the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office.
