Elderly Woman with Dementia Found Safe After Multi-Hour Search in Michigan
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An endangered missing advisory was successfully resolved Thursday evening after 83-year-old Denise Mullen, a resident of Grosse Pointe Park, Michigan, was located safe in Erie, Pennsylvania. Mullen had been missing for over four hours, prompting a search involving local authorities and the Michigan State Police.
The incident began around 3:20 p.m. on October 18th, when Mullen was reported missing from the 700 Block of Gran Marais in Grosse Pointe Park. According to police reports, the elderly woman, who suffers from dementia, informed her caregiver of her intention to travel to a family home in Erie, Pennsylvania – a destination she ultimately reached.
Initial Concerns and Search Efforts
The circumstances surrounding Mullen’s disappearance initially raised significant concerns. She departed in a blue 2021 Acura bearing Pennsylvania registration. Authorities noted that her cellphone was switched off, and she had not operated a vehicle in over a year. Furthermore, the family had been unable to establish contact with her, amplifying fears for her well-being.
A description of Mullen was quickly disseminated to the public. She was last seen wearing a light teal blue jacket and black pants, with blonde hair and blue eyes. Her approximate height is 5’8” and she weighs around 145 pounds. The Michigan State Police issued an endangered missing advisory to aid in the search.
Safe Recovery in Pennsylvania
Fortunately, the search concluded successfully around 8 p.m. when Mullen was found in Erie, Pennsylvania. Police confirmed she had arrived at the family home she had mentioned to her caregiver.
The swift resolution highlights the importance of rapid response protocols in cases involving vulnerable individuals, particularly those with cognitive impairments. The collaborative efforts of local law enforcement and the Michigan State Police were instrumental in ensuring Mullen’s safe return.
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This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the challenges faced by families and caregivers of individuals living with dementia, and the need for heightened awareness and community support.
