Authorities are asking for the public’s help in locating a 70-year-old woman who was reported missing after she disappeared from the unincorporated community of West Valinda in Los Angeles County.
Maria Velasquez, who has memory loss and other medical conditions that require medication, was last seen Thursday morning. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said there are concerns for her well-being and is urging anyone with information to come forward.
Disappearance
According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Velasquez was last seen at approximately 8 a.m. Thursday in the 900 block of Van Wig Avenue in West Valinda.
Investigators have not released additional details about where she may have been headed or the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
Because of her medical conditions, authorities have classified her as an at-risk missing person.
Description
Sheriff’s officials described Maria Velasquez as a 5-foot-1-inch Hispanic woman weighing approximately 180 pounds.
She has black hair and brown eyes.
At the time she was last seen, Velasquez was wearing:
| Description | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Maria Velasquez |
| Age | 70 |
| Height | 5 feet 1 inch |
| Weight | 180 pounds |
| Hair | Black |
| Eyes | Brown |
| Last seen wearing | Purple shirt, black-and-blue shorts, white shoes |
| Last seen | 900 block of Van Wig Avenue, West Valinda |
Investigation
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is continuing its search for Velasquez and is asking residents to remain alert for anyone matching her description.
Authorities have not announced whether any confirmed sightings have been reported since she was last seen Thursday morning.
Missing person investigations involving individuals with memory loss are often treated with urgency because they may become disoriented or unable to seek assistance.
Public Help
Sheriff’s officials are encouraging anyone who has seen Maria Velasquez or has information about her whereabouts to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau Missing Persons Detail at 323-890-5500.
Those wishing to remain anonymous may contact Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or submit tips through lacrimestoppers.org.
Safety
Authorities continue to emphasize that Velasquez’s medical conditions make locating her a priority.
Family members and investigators are hoping the public can help provide information that may assist in bringing her home safely.
The search for Maria Velasquez remains active as investigators work to locate the missing West Valinda resident. Anyone who believes they have seen her is encouraged to contact authorities as soon as possible.
FAQs
Who is missing?
Maria Velasquez, a 70-year-old at-risk woman.
Where was she last seen?
She was last seen in West Valinda on Van Wig Avenue.
Why is she considered at risk?
She has memory loss and medical conditions requiring medication.
What was she wearing?
A purple shirt, black-and-blue shorts, and white shoes.
Who should people contact?
Call the LASD Missing Persons Detail at 323-890-5500.
