NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — Have you seen 62-year-old Leon Francis?
The Virginia State Police sent out a Senior Alert for the Newport News man on Wednesday.
On Tuesday around 7:45 a.m., Newport News police were sent to the 400 block of Wynn Drive about a missing person. On the scene, officers spoke with a woman who said her husband was missing. She said Leon Francis was last seen at around 6:10 a.m. Tuesday morning.
Francis is described as a black male, 5'8" tall and 160 pounds. He was only wearing a t-shirt, boxers, and one shoe on the day he was reported missing.
Newport News Police consider Francis endangered, saying he suffers from cognitive impairment and his disappearance poses a credible threat to his health and safety.
Francis’ family is speaking out and asking for help to find him.
Francis is a husband, father and grandfather. His wife Daphne said it’s not like him to just up and leave. She describes her husband as a people magnet.
“His personality is overwhelming, and he will befriend anyone,” Daphne Francis said.
Francis has Parkinson's disease which is part of the reason he’s considered endangered. His family said he hasn’t had his medication in days.
Officers set up a command unit along Warwick Boulevard Thursday afternoon. They used a drone to check the areas surrounding the Francis home. Officers also checked with the airport, bus station and hospitals.
The community has jumped in to help find the Marine veteran. People are sharing his picture on social media. His daughters, Sheila and Arlanda are passing out flyers.
“Our biggest fear is if he's in danger now,” Sheila Francis said. “We’re trying to not let the negative thoughts overpower us, but this is not like him.”
The family says the community support is overwhelming.
“It brought a positive light, keeping us upbeat, it's been helpful,” Arlanda Francis said.
The family said they’re remaining positive, and they believe with the help of police and the community, they will find him.
“It's in God's hands and we hope Leon gets home soon,” Daphne Francis said.
Police said Francis has limited motor capacity and has difficulty walking.
If anyone knowns Francis' whereabouts, please contact Newport News Police Department at 757–247–2500.