Lancaster County Man Found Safe After July 4th Disappearance, Sheriff Confirms
LANCASTER COUNTY, S.C. – A 74-year-old Lancaster County man who was reported missing on Independence Day while attempting to visit his hospitalized wife has been located and is now safe, according to a statement from the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office.
The man, Ronald Duvel, was last seen leaving his home around 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 4, with plans to travel to Columbia, South Carolina, where his wife is currently receiving medical treatment. However, concerns quickly grew after family members discovered that Mr. Duvel had departed without his cell phone or necessary medication, making it difficult to contact or track his whereabouts.
Widespread Concern Triggers Search Effort
Authorities launched a missing persons alert after Duvel failed to check in with family or arrive at his intended destination. With temperatures rising over the holiday weekend and Duvel being a senior with known medical needs, officials feared for his well-being and worked quickly to spread the word to nearby jurisdictions.
The case prompted heightened concern on social media, as local residents shared photos and vehicle information in an effort to locate him. Community members offered help and relayed sightings in hopes of providing clues to investigators.
Found Safe the Following Morning
Relief came late Saturday morning when officials located Mr. Duvel around 10:45 a.m. Specific details about where or how he was found have not been made public, but the sheriff’s office confirmed that Duvel was found safe and alert and has since been reunited with his family.
Authorities have not indicated whether the incident involved a medical emergency, disorientation, or another factor, though they have expressed gratitude for the community’s assistance and vigilance.
“We’re thankful this had a positive outcome,” one Lancaster County deputy said. “Given the circumstances and the holiday timing, things could have taken a much worse turn.”
Senior Travel Safety in the Spotlight
The incident highlights growing concerns about travel safety for older adults, especially those managing chronic medical conditions or cognitive decline. Experts recommend that seniors always carry a charged cell phone, travel with companions when possible, and inform family of their planned routes and estimated arrival times.
Some residents are now calling for expanded Silver Alert protocols in rural counties and greater community awareness when elderly individuals go missing.
Have you experienced a loved one going missing due to age or health concerns? What steps do you take to ensure senior safety while traveling? Share your stories and suggestions at saludastandard-sentinel.com — your input can help build safer communities.
