Elderly Mint Hill Man Found Safe After Police Search
MINT HILL, N.C. — An 80-year-old man reported missing in the Mint Hill area Monday afternoon was found safe later that evening, according to police.
Search for Missing Driver
The Matthews Police Department said Ralph Getz, 80, was last seen around 4:30 p.m. on Sept. 29 while driving a white 2012 Chevrolet Impala with North Carolina license plate FCX-2944. He had been spotted on Fairview Road in Mint Hill before his disappearance sparked concern.
Police released a description of Getz as 5-foot-6, 160 pounds, with gray hair and brown eyes, and noted he was last seen wearing a red shirt and dark pants.
Found Safe Later That Night
By 10 p.m. Monday, police confirmed Getz had been located and was safe. Authorities did not provide details on where he was found but ended the advisory after ensuring his wellbeing.
Community Relief
Neighbors and community members expressed relief following the update, with many praising the swift response from Matthews police.
Officials thanked the public for staying alert and encouraged residents to continue reporting sightings promptly in future cases of missing vulnerable adults.
Do you believe more safety programs should be developed to support elderly drivers in North Carolina communities? Share your thoughts in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
