Urgent Plea: Northridge Community Rallies to Find Missing Woman with Alzheimer's

Imagine the knot in your stomach, the sheer panic, when a loved one, especially one as vulnerable as Patricia Ann Thomas, simply vanishes. That's the heartbreaking reality facing a Northridge family right now, as a desperate search is underway for 77-year-old Patricia, who suffers from Alzheimer's dementia.

Patricia was last seen bright and early Tuesday morning – around 9:30 a.m., to be exact – near the 18800 block of Plummer Street, which is really close to where Plummer and Reseda meet. One moment she was there, and then, heartbreakingly, she wasn't. It's a terrifying thought for anyone, but especially when dealing with someone who might get disoriented easily, you know?

Authorities, clearly concerned, have released her description, hoping it will jog someone's memory. Patricia is a Black woman, standing about 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing roughly 180 pounds. She has striking gray hair and kind brown eyes. When she was last spotted, she was wearing a floral shirt, paired with gray pants, and there's a good chance she might have also had on a green jacket.

Because Patricia lives with Alzheimer's dementia, her disappearance isn't just concerning; it's classified as a 'critical missing' situation. This means she could easily be disoriented, unsure of where she is or how to get home, and incredibly vulnerable to the elements or any kind of danger. The clock, as they say, is truly ticking here.

The Los Angeles Police Department is pulling out all the stops, but they really need our collective eyes and ears. If you, or anyone you know, happened to see Patricia, even if it was just a fleeting glimpse, please, please don't hesitate. Pick up the phone and dial 911 immediately. Every single detail, no matter how small or insignificant it might seem, could be the crucial piece of the puzzle that brings Patricia safely back to her worried family.