Police have launched an urgent appeal to help find an 89-year-old man who has been missing from Thornton Heath since Saturday afternoon.
Felix vanished from the south London area on 18 October and was last spotted around 4pm, sparking serious concern for his welfare given his age and vulnerability.
The elderly gentleman is known to use a walking stick, which may help members of the public identify him if spotted.
Last Known Sighting on Saturday Afternoon
Felix was last seen in the Thornton Heath area at approximately 4pm on Saturday, 18 October.
Police have not disclosed the specific location within Thornton Heath where he was last spotted, though officers are likely focusing search efforts on the surrounding neighbourhoods.
The fact that more than 24 hours have passed since his disappearance has heightened concerns for his safety and wellbeing.
Elderly Man Uses Walking Stick
The 89-year-old is known to use a walking stick for mobility, a distinctive feature that could help the public identify him.
His use of a walking aid suggests he may have limited mobility, potentially restricting how far he could have travelled from where he was last seen.
Police have not released a photograph or detailed description of Felix’s appearance or clothing at this time.
Public Urged to Contact Police Immediately
Metropolitan Police are urging anyone who spots Felix or has any information about his whereabouts to contact them immediately.
Members of the public can call 101 quoting reference number 1577/19OCT when providing information to officers.
Alternatively, witnesses can send a message to MetCC, the Metropolitan Police’s central communications command.
Concerns Mount as Hours Pass
The longer Felix remains missing, the greater the concern for his welfare given his advanced age and the autumn weather conditions.
Elderly individuals who go missing are particularly vulnerable, especially if they become disoriented or suffer medical episodes whilst away from home.
Police will be checking CCTV footage from the Thornton Heath area and speaking to local residents and businesses to try to trace his movements.
Thornton Heath Search Area
Thornton Heath is a district in south London within the London Borough of Croydon, bordered by areas including Norbury, Selhurst and Broad Green.
The area has good transport links including Thornton Heath railway station, raising the possibility Felix may have travelled further afield.
Local officers are likely coordinating with neighbouring boroughs to widen the search if initial efforts in Thornton Heath prove unsuccessful.
Critical Hours for Missing Vulnerable Person
The first 24 to 48 hours are considered critical when vulnerable adults go missing, as swift action can prevent tragedy.
Felix’s age makes him particularly vulnerable to the elements, potential accidents, or medical emergencies that could occur whilst he is alone.
Police will be liaising with hospitals and other emergency services to check whether he has been admitted anywhere or required assistance.
Community Asked to Check Outbuildings and Gardens
Residents in Thornton Heath and surrounding areas are being asked to check their gardens, sheds, garages and any outbuildings where a confused elderly person might have sought shelter.
Local businesses are also being asked to review any CCTV footage from Saturday afternoon that might show Felix passing by.
Taxi and bus drivers who were working in the area on Saturday afternoon may have vital information if they saw an elderly man with a walking stick.
Family’s Anguish
Whilst police have not released a statement from Felix’s family, they will undoubtedly be experiencing extreme distress as the hours tick by without news.
The emotional toll on families when elderly relatives go missing is immense, particularly when the individual may be confused or vulnerable.
Officers will be providing support to the family whilst pursuing all available leads to locate Felix safely.
If you have seen Felix or have any information about his whereabouts, please contact police immediately on 101 quoting reference 1577/19OCT, or message MetCC.
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