DETROIT (Michigan News Source) – Detroit has experienced a sharp rise in missing persons reports in 2024, with over 3,100 cases filed to date – an 18% jump from 2023, according to Detroit Police Department data as of December 13th.

The increase is largely tied to runaway teenagers and individuals from vulnerable groups the Detroit Free Press reports, including elderly residents with dementia and people living with mental health challenges.

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Police officials are pointing to a growing number of runaways who “voluntarily” leave home without permission as a significant factor behind the surge. These cases often involve teens fleeing difficult home environments, only to find themselves in situations that may put them in harm’s way.

Darryl Woods, chair of the Detroit Board of Police Commissioners says, ”One child missing is enough. And we need to continue to ramp up our efforts and find ways to make sure that children are in safe places.”

The numbers tell a story of risk and recovery.

Of the 3,100 reported missing persons cases in Detroit this year, police say they have successfully located more than 2,900 individuals – a recovery rate that underscores the department’s focus on resolving these cases quickly. However, the remaining open cases and the risks involved, especially for younger individuals, are a cause for concern.

Even when recoveries are swift, the time spent missing can expose children and teens to exploitation, trafficking, and violence. Detroit Police data on their website says that about 41% of the people actively missing since December 13th are classified as “runaways” and Detroit Police Sgt. Shannon Jones says that every year, those kids are getting younger and younger.

Pushing back against the alarm over the numbers, Tamara Liberty Smith, vice chair of the Detroit Board of Police Commissioners, says “we do not have an epidemic of missing persons” pointing to the fact that many of the missing are runaway youths who they find are continuing to use their social media after they go missing – and that they eventually find their way back home.

Lost and vulnerable: the risks facing elderly individuals with dementia.

For elderly individuals with dementia, becoming lost can quickly escalate into a life-threatening situation, as their condition often impairs their ability to navigate or seek help. Even a short period of disorientation can have serious consequences, particularly if they wander into unfamiliar areas or are exposed to extreme weather conditions such as intense heat, freezing temperatures, or heavy rain.

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In these scenarios, they may struggle to find shelter, become dehydrated, or suffer from injuries due to falls or accidents. The risk of harm increases exponentially the longer they remain lost, highlighting the urgent need for preventive measures and rapid response in such situations.

To keep track of elderly dementia family members in their care, caregivers are turning to resources including GPS trackers, smartphone apps, door and window alarms and bed and chair sensors.

Behind the numbers: a community in crisis.

The rise in missing persons cases shines a light on difficult social challenges facing the Detroit area. Many teens who run away are fleeing unstable home environments, including poverty, abuse, or neglect. Others may be influenced by peer pressure, online predators, or the promise of freedom that turns into a dangerous reality.

For adults, mental health crises and conditions like dementia are also driving many of the missing persons reports in Detroit. Caregivers and family members often find themselves overwhelmed, and in many cases, resources to support these individuals are insufficient.

A call to action for Detroit’s communities.

Community involvement is key to help solve the issue. Neighbors, friends, and local organizations play a crucial role in spotting and reporting signs that someone might be at risk. Law enforcement officials urge residents to report suspicious activity or concerns about vulnerable individuals to help prevent cases before they happen.

“I strongly believe that it is a community issue when our young people come missing in the city of Detroit,” Darryl Woods, chair of the Detroit Board of Police Commissioner says, “that we have to stay vigilant and that we have to continue to roll up our sleeves to be able to protect our children.”