Springfield Police are asking for the public's help finding Scott Mathersil, a 34-year-old man who was last seen leaving his program on August 14.
According to the Springfield Police Department, Mathersil was last seen wearing a Town Fair Tire work uniform.
What Detectives Are Asking the Public to Do
Anyone with information about Mathersil's whereabouts is asked to call Springfield Police detectives at 413-787-6360, or reach the department's non-emergency line at 413-787-6300.
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 6A, Section 18L establishes the statewide Silver Alert system that coordinates law enforcement agencies and public safety resources when vulnerable adults go missing, according to the Massachusetts Legislature.
A Pattern of Local Searches for Vulnerable Adults
Hoodline previously reported on the search for missing 50-year-old Raul Arroyo in August, another case where detectives sought a vulnerable adult needing medical attention. Officers who locate a missing adult requiring medical attention are to secure immediate emergency care before notifying the person who reported them missing.
Massachusetts overall reports the lowest missing persons rate in the nation, with 2.32 open missing person cases per 100,000 residents compared to a national average of 6.5, according to data compiled by World Population Review and NamUS. The same data shows that of the more than 500,000 missing person cases reported annually nationwide, over 90 percent are resolved within the year, offering some context for families waiting on updates like Mathersil's. According to NamUs, Office of Justice Programs, its reports have included monthly statistics for missing-person, unidentified-person, unclaimed-person, and forensic cases since January 2023. According to NamUs, Office of Justice Programs, its statistics cover only individuals reported to NamUs as missing, unidentified, or unclaimed and therefore do not represent every such case nationwide.
Tools Available if the Search Escalates
The available information does not identify additional tools or operations involved in the search.
For now, Springfield Police are relying on tips from the public. Residents can text SOLVE along with information to 274637 (CRIMES) to report time-sensitive tips anonymously. What program Mathersil was leaving, the nature of his medical needs, and whether he had access to a vehicle or public transit remain unknown as detectives continue working the case. According to the City of Springfield's Open Space & Recovery Action Plan 2015-2022, public transportation in Springfield and twenty-two surrounding communities is sponsored by the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority.
