The Newport News Police Department is actively seeking the public’s assistance in locating 71-year-old Thomas Thompson, a missing and endangered adult. Thompson was last seen at approximately 11:30 a.m. today, May 9, 2025, at his home located at 1136 Hampton Ave. His disappearance has raised significant concern, especially considering that he suffers from a medical condition that has made him vulnerable. Authorities have classified him as endangered, and efforts are intensifying to locate him safely.

Thomas Thompson, a White male, is described as standing 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighing 145 pounds. He has a beard and what has been described as scruffy hair. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a blue jacket with a hood and brown sweatpants. This detailed description is critical for residents and anyone in the surrounding areas to keep an eye out for Thompson. His sudden disappearance and the surrounding circumstances have led to a coordinated search effort that involves local law enforcement agencies, emergency services, and community outreach.

This article will delve deeper into the details of Thomas Thompson’s case, examine the implications of his disappearance, and discuss the broader issue of missing persons in Virginia, especially those who are elderly or dealing with medical issues. It will also explore the efforts made by law enforcement to locate missing persons and the resources available to the community to assist in these searches.

The Disappearance: A Concern for Public Safety

The news of Thomas Thompson’s disappearance has raised alarm within the Newport News community. While his family and friends anxiously await news of his whereabouts, the case has also prompted officials to issue warnings about the risks of elderly individuals going missing, particularly those with medical conditions.

According to the Newport News Police Department, Thompson’s disappearance is especially concerning due to his medical condition, which may make him vulnerable and unable to navigate his surroundings or communicate effectively. Medical conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other cognitive impairments are particularly common among elderly individuals and can significantly affect their ability to remember where they are or how to get help.

In cases like this, time is critical. The longer someone remains missing, the higher the risk of injury, exposure to the elements, or becoming disoriented. Authorities have been working around the clock to ensure that Thompson is found as soon as possible and brought back safely to his family.

The Medical Concerns: Why Elderly Disappearances Are So Concerning

Elderly individuals who are missing due to health-related reasons present a unique set of challenges for both law enforcement and their families. In addition to the physical concerns related to aging, such as weakened strength and mobility, many elderly individuals experience cognitive decline, which can make them confused, forgetful, or disoriented. In some cases, individuals with conditions such as Alzheimer’s or dementia may wander off without any understanding of their location or how to return home. This can lead to dangerous situations, especially when the weather conditions are unfavorable or when they encounter traffic.

Thompson’s medical condition has not been specified in the police report, but it has been flagged as a critical element of the investigation. Law enforcement officials and medical professionals are concerned that his condition could make it difficult for him to navigate through the city and could place him in further danger. For instance, if Thompson is unable to remember his way home or recognize landmarks, his ability to seek assistance or make contact with others may be compromised.

The Efforts of the Newport News Police Department

Since the discovery of Thompson’s disappearance, the Newport News Police Department has worked diligently to locate him. Officers from the department have conducted neighborhood searches, canvassed local businesses, and worked with community members to gather any information that could help track Thompson’s movements. Law enforcement has also reached out to the public through social media and local news outlets, urging anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist with the search.

In cases like these, police also coordinate with local and regional law enforcement agencies to expand the search area and ensure that no potential lead goes unnoticed. Additionally, the police have worked closely with organizations such as the National Center for Missing & Exploited Persons (NCME) and the Virginia State Police to alert surrounding communities about Thompson’s disappearance and to request assistance from citizens who may have seen him or have any knowledge of his whereabouts.

One of the primary challenges of missing persons cases is locating the individual in a timely manner, especially if they are mobile or have wandered far from their last known location. Law enforcement agencies often rely on tips from the public, surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras, and witness accounts to track down missing individuals.

The Importance of Community Involvement: How the Public Can Help

The role of the public in locating missing persons cannot be overstated. Public involvement in missing persons cases can dramatically increase the likelihood of locating the individual and ensuring their safety. In many cases, missing individuals are found when members of the community come forward with key information, whether it’s a sighting of the person or details about their last known movements.

As part of the ongoing search for Thomas Thompson, the Newport News Police Department is urging residents in the local area to stay vigilant and report any information they may have, no matter how small. People are being asked to check their security cameras, review footage from that day, or recall any unusual activity that may be relevant to the case.

The police department has provided the following contact information for anyone who may have seen Thompson or who may have relevant information:

• Police Department Contact Number: 254-298-5500

• Anonymous Tips: Submit through Crime Stoppers at (254) 526-TIPS (8477) or online at Crime Stoppers website

Authorities emphasize that no detail is too minor when it comes to locating a missing person. The smallest clue could help lead investigators to Thompson, so community involvement is crucial.

The Broader Issue of Missing Adults: National Context

The search for Thomas Thompson is part of a much larger, ongoing issue of missing persons in the United States. According to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs), approximately 600,000 people are reported missing each year in the U.S. While the vast majority of these individuals are located relatively quickly, the numbers highlight the need for effective systems of tracking and locating missing persons. The vast majority of missing individuals are adults, and many are elderly, such as Thompson, with health conditions that may impair their ability to communicate or navigate.

The issues faced by missing adults, especially elderly individuals with medical conditions, are far-reaching. The National Institute on Aging estimates that 5.8 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and millions more experience other forms of dementia, which significantly increase the likelihood of becoming disoriented or lost. The elderly population is particularly vulnerable to wandering, and missing persons cases involving seniors often require specialized attention, including immediate search efforts, coordination between law enforcement agencies, and support for families.

The Role of Technology: How Technology is Helping Locate Missing Persons

In recent years, advancements in technology have played a significant role in improving the ability to locate missing persons. Tools such as GPS trackers, real-time surveillance systems, and social media platforms have transformed the way missing person cases are handled. Local and regional law enforcement now have access to tools that allow them to reach out to a wider audience and gather information more efficiently.

For instance, Amber Alerts, Silver Alerts, and social media campaigns are increasingly being used to notify the public when someone is missing, especially when it involves vulnerable populations like the elderly. These alerts can significantly increase the chances of locating a missing individual by spreading the word quickly across large geographic areas.

In Thompson’s case, his information was likely circulated through these networks, allowing anyone who may have seen him or had relevant information to come forward quickly. Additionally, technology plays a role in helping law enforcement track down missing persons through databases, mobile apps, and online tip submissions, such as Crime Stoppers.

The Role of Family and Community: Support Systems and Resources

The emotional toll of a missing person case, especially one involving an elderly family member, is devastating for families. In addition to working with law enforcement, families often require emotional support during such stressful times. For Thompson’s family, the uncertainty of his whereabouts is no doubt a traumatic experience, and the community support that they receive is vital.

Local organizations, support groups, and counseling services are often available to assist families who are dealing with the anguish of a missing loved one. These resources provide a safe space for families to share their emotions, receive updates, and gather strength as they wait for news.

Community members, too, play a vital role in supporting the family of the missing person. The willingness of neighbors and local businesses to help in the search can provide a much-needed sense of solidarity during such difficult times.

Conclusion: A Community Rallying to Find Thomas Thompson

The search for 71-year-old Thomas Thompson continues as his family and the community of Newport News anxiously await his safe return. The efforts of the police department, local authorities, and the public are essential to locating Thompson and bringing him home. As the investigation progresses, the hope remains that this vulnerable elderly man will be found and reunited with his loved ones.

As authorities continue to work diligently, the community is urged to stay engaged and report any information that could lead to his whereabouts. This case also highlights the broader issues surrounding elderly missing persons and the importance of creating systems that protect the vulnerable and support their families during difficult times.

The Temple Police Department, the Newport News community, and families everywhere remain united in their commitment to finding missing loved ones and ensuring that no one is left behind.