October 20, 2025

Missing 78-Year-Old Man in Los Angeles Found Safe

News Summary

A Silver Alert for Shogo Wakamatsu, a missing 78-year-old man from North Hollywood, has been cancelled after he was found safe. Wakamatsu had been unaccounted for after leaving his residence late in the evening. The California Highway Patrol issued the alert amid concerns regarding his mental health, particularly potential undiagnosed dementia. His safe return underscores the importance of community involvement in such cases.

Los Angeles

A Silver Alert issued for a missing 78-year-old man in Los Angeles County has been deactivated after he was located safe. Shogo Wakamatsu was found at approximately 1:15 a.m. on Saturday, following concerns that he may have been suffering from undiagnosed dementia.

Wakamatsu was reported missing after he was last seen leaving his home in North Hollywood around 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday. His residence is situated in the 12600 block of Willard Street, which is near Strathern Park North. Wakamatsu is described as being of Japanese descent, approximately 4 feet 7 inches tall, and weighing about 90 pounds. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a purple sweatshirt, blue sweatpants, black socks, and no shoes.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) activated the Silver Alert on behalf of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). The Silver Alert program is specifically designed for situations involving elderly, developmentally disabled, or cognitively impaired individuals who go missing under unexplained or suspicious circumstances.

Details of the Activation

Following Wakamatsu’s disappearance, the Silver Alert aimed to mobilize community awareness and assistance in locating him swiftly. He was reported missing due to potential risks associated with his cognitive state, which may have impaired his ability to return home independently.

Outcome of the Search

The search concluded successfully with Wakamatsu’s safe return. However, no additional information about his condition or what led to his disappearance has been disclosed. The prompt resolution of this case highlights the importance of the Silver Alert system in ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals.

Background on Silver Alerts

Established to assist in quickly locating missing individuals who are elderly or have cognitive impairments, the Silver Alert program has been instrumental in raising awareness in local communities. When a Silver Alert is activated, the public is encouraged to report any sightings or information that may help in locating the missing person.

Shogo Wakamatsu’s case illustrates the effectiveness of this program, as well as the community’s role in assisting law enforcement in searches of this nature. The activation of a Silver Alert mobilizes public support which can significantly enhance the chances of a safe recovery.

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Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD

The Hollywood Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHollywood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hollywood, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Hollywood Bowl summer concerts, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, film premieres at TCL Chinese Theatre, and festivals at the Magic Castle. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hollywood, plus leading businesses in entertainment, dining, and tourism that define the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HEREAnaheim.com, and HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.

STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD

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