Police launch emergency search in Geertruidenberg for missing 80-year-old resident
Authorities deployed a helicopter, a drone, and a specialized rescue team in Geertruidenberg following the disappearance of an 80-year-old resident from a local care facility. The man was last seen in the night from Tuesday to Wednesday, prompting an urgent multi-agency search operation across the area.
The man vanished from Woonzorgcentrum Bastion, located at the Burchtplein, according to Omroep Brabant. Police received the first Burgernet alert regarding the missing resident at 4:30 a.m. Tuesday night, after he was last spotted inside the building around 3:30 a.m.
Emergency operations and search deployment at Burchtplein
The search effort expanded rapidly Wednesday morning as emergency services covered multiple locations simultaneously around the care facility. A police spokesperson told Omroep Brabant that crews searched the interior of the building while a police boat checked the water adjacent to the property.
The operation also incorporated aerial assets, including a police helicopter and a drone. In addition, the Veteranen Search Team deployed to assist police on the ground, establishing a central meeting point for volunteers and participants in the parking lot of the Dongemond College.
BN DeStem noted that the search carries heightened urgency due to the man’s advanced age and the low outdoor temperatures recorded during the night.
Physical description and clothing details released by authorities
Specific physical details were released to help members of the public identify the missing resident. The 80-year-old man has a light skin tone, stands 1.71 meters tall, and has a thin build with closely cropped hair.
At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a white blouse featuring blue checks, a blue pair of jeans, and sturdy dark brown mountain boots. Omroep Brabant added that he may also have been wearing a light blue jacket.
Residents urged to dial emergency number
Police have urged residents across Geertruidenberg to keep a close lookout for anyone matching the man’s description. Authorities stress that anyone who spots the missing resident or holds relevant information about his current whereabouts should immediately call 112.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where was the missing man last seen?
He was last seen at approximately 3:30 a.m. in the night from Tuesday to Wednesday inside Woonzorglocatie Bastion situated at the Burchtplein in Geertruidenberg.
Which organizations are assisting local police in the search?
The search involves multiple specialized units, including the Veteranen Search Team, a police boat crew, a police helicopter, and a drone deployment team.
What emergency contact number should witnesses call with information?
Authorities instruct anyone who sees the man or has information regarding his location to dial 112 immediately.
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