Roanoke, Virginia – In a recent press conference, the Roanoke Police Department expressed growing concerns regarding the disappearance of Mr. James “Jim” Herman Smith, an 81-year-old resident.
Smith was last seen around 1:45 a.m. Monday in the vicinity of the 1800 block of Orange Ave NW. While it is not uncommon for Mr. Smith to take brief walks from his residence, his current absence is notably longer than usual. Authorities believe he may be disoriented.
Prior residences include the Gainsboro area, and given his history of employment with Roanoke City Public Schools, it’s plausible he might attempt to visit a nearby school. The public is encouraged to inspect potential sheltering locations like vehicles and outbuildings. Furthermore, any individual who might have offered Smith transportation is requested to come forward.
For identification, Mr. Smith is described as a Black individual, about 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighing approximately 215 pounds. Distinguishing features include brown eyes, gray hair, and facial hair. It’s believed he might be dressed in a white short-sleeved shirt, blue jeans without a belt, and may be without shoes. Given his cognitive challenges and the escalating risk of dehydration, there are substantial concerns for his welfare.
Should anyone spot Mr. Smith or have pertinent details about his current location, they are implored to contact 911 or the Roanoke City Police Department directly at 540-853-2212.
THE VIRGINIA STATE POLICE HAS ISSUED A SENIOR ALERT. YOU MAY FIND COMPLETE INFORMATION AT https://t.co/Uz6uW7XWtV pic.twitter.com/aZeDKoTtsn
— VSPalerts (@VSPalerts) September 4, 2023
