On Tuesday, September 19, 2023, around 11:30 pm, the Campbell Police Department received a report of a missing 84-year-old gentleman who suffered from dementia and Alzheimer's. The elderly man had last been seen in his room approximately 5-6 hours before the report was made, with no access to a vehicle, cellphone, or tracking device.
Our dedicated officers and dispatchers launched coordinated effort to locate the missing individual. The search extended across Campbell and nearby healthcare facilities, including all local parks and trails. A member of our specialized Drone Team piloted a police drone to survey the area. At approximately 1:30 am, the drone pilot located the elderly gentleman, lying on the shoulder of Highway 17.
With urgency and precision, our officers promptly responded to the drone's discovery and successfully rescued the man. Subsequent medical evaluation revealed minor injuries, and he was immediately transported to a local hospital for further care.
This positive outcome underscores the critical role technology plays in modern policing. The Campbell Police Drone Team consistently harnesses cutting-edge technology not only for search and rescue operations but also to combat crime and respond to critical incidents. These drones, integral to our daily operations and emergency responses, equip our officers with invaluable situational awareness, ultimately expediting our response times and aiding in more efficient resolution of incidents.
“The successful rescue is just one example of our unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our community members,” stated Chief Gary Berg. “The Campbell Police Department remains dedicated to leveraging technology and innovative solutions to provide outstanding public safety.”
