Missing 76-Year-Old Man with Dementia Found Safe After Two-Day Search in Florence County

Missing Man with Dementia Found Safe in Florence County

In a heartwarming turn of events, a 76-year-old man with dementia who had been missing for nearly two days was safely located by the dedicated Florence County Sheriff’s deputies late Friday afternoon. The man, John Rogers, was reported missing early Wednesday morning after he left his home on Fair Oaks Lane. His family, understandably worried, revealed that he headed towards National Cemetery Road on foot, igniting an immediate response from local law enforcement.

Rapid Response from Law Enforcement

The emergency response was swift and thorough. Officers cut no corners in their search efforts, deploying ground units, infrared drones, and even a helicopter to scour the area. The investigators knew that every second counted when searching for a loved one in need.

Aerial Assistance Makes All the Difference

Thanks to the sharp eyes of the deputies flying the agency’s helicopter, Raptor 1, they managed to pinpoint Mr. Rogers’ location in a wooded area near the intersection of Paper Mill and Liberty Chapel roads. The teamwork displayed was nothing short of heroic, as the helicopter crew guided ground deputies to the scene where Rogers had taken shelter.

Relief and Gratitude

After being found, Rogers was safely handed over to medical personnel from Florence County EMS. They quickly transported him to a local hospital for evaluation and treatment. His family can now breathe a sigh of relief, knowing he’s in good hands. Sheriff T.J. Joye expressed his gratitude for the success of the search, stating, “We never gave up on the search for Mr. Rogers. This is the second elderly wanderer our aviation unit has successfully located in the last 30 days. We are thrilled that Mr. Rogers has been found.”

The Community Comes Together

The incident has once again highlighted the strength of community support during times of crisis. Many locals took to social media, sharing updates and encouraging one another throughout the search process. The collaborative efforts made by the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, community volunteers, and local EMS are a shining example of the dedication to keeping residents safe.

Looking Ahead

Safe and sound, Rogers’ journey serves as a stark reminder to families about the importance of having plans in place for loved ones with cognitive impairments. Regular check-ins, utilizing monitoring devices, and simple neighborhood watch can make a huge difference. Experts recommend always having a designated spot to meet in case anyone goes missing, another layer of safety for our cherished elderly community members.

Voting Making Headlines

2024 General Election! Voters are heading to the polls today, with many expecting a historic turnout across the Pee Dee region. Local, state, and national representation hangs in the balance, making this an exciting time for civic engagement.

As you enjoy your weekend, let’s take a moment to honor the heroes who rallied together for Mr. Rogers, reminding us all of the power of community spirit. As we continue to care for one another, let’s also prepare to stand together at the polls, shaping the future of Florence County! Stay tuned for more updates, and if you’re looking for the latest election results and local news, keep an eye on upcoming announcements.