Authorities in Texas are asking for the public’s help in locating an elderly couple who disappeared after leaving a family gathering over Thanksgiving.
On Sunday, Nov. 30, a Silver Alert was issued for Linda and Gary Lightfoot after the Texas Department of Public Safety joined the effort to find them, according to officials.
The Carson County Sheriff’s Office shared details about Linda, 81, and Gary, 82, in a statement on Facebook, noting that the couple’s family and law enforcement are increasingly concerned for their wellbeing.
The Lightfoots were last seen leaving Panhandle, Texas, on Thursday, Nov. 27, but never arrived at their home in Lubbock.
Investigators believe they were traveling in a silver 2024 Toyota Camry with Texas license plate TXLP TWN0925.
The sheriff’s office noted that “neither Linda or Gary Lightfoot has a cellphone or other traceable instruments,” making them more difficult to locate. Officials added that the couple’s disappearance is considered a credible threat to their health and safety, as 82-year-old Gary is dependent on oxygen.
Panhandle Police Chief Sace Hardman told local outlet Everything Lubbock that family members reported the couple missing on Friday, Nov. 28, saying the Lightfoots had left Panhandle around 3 p.m. local time the previous day and never checked in.
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Authorities later received reports that the couple’s vehicle had been seen near Santa Rosa or San Jon, N.M., but search efforts in that area did not locate the car, the outlet reported.
According to the Silver Alert, Linda was last seen wearing a black and white blouse, a bulky silver necklace and dark pants. She is described as 5 feet, 3 inches tall and weighing around 128 lbs.
Gary was last seen in a gray sweater and black sweatpants. He is 5 feet, 9 inches tall and weighs about 197 lbs.
Silver Alerts are issued to quickly notify the public when an older adult with a documented condition, such as Alzheimer’s disease or another cognitive impairment, goes missing. These alerts are typically requested within 72 hours after the disappearance of a person 65 or older, following an initial investigation.
Local, county and state agencies are currently involved in the search for the Lightfoots. New Mexico State Police and Quay County officials have reportedly deployed helicopters and drones to assist in the effort.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Linda and Gary Lightfoot is urged to contact the Carson County Sheriff’s Office at 806-537-3511 or call 911.
