Shell Cove: Major search underway for elderly man with dementia
A major search is underway at Shell Cove, south of Wollongong, after an elderly man with dementia was reported missing.
Illawarra Star
Don't miss out on the headlines from Illawarra Star. Followed categories will be added to My News.
- School principal to stand trial over allegations of child sex assault
- Wollongong’s secret Uber-style party drug ‘nangs’ delivery service
A major search operation is underway at Shell Cove, after an elderly man with dementia went missing in the area earlier today.
The search for 83-year-old Albert Sovrano began around midday, after he was last seen at Woolworths Shell Cove on Wednesday at 9am.
Police put out a public appeal for anyone who may have seen Mr Sovrano, who suffers from dementia and may only remember his name.
A major search effort is currently underway at Bass Point, where Mr Sovrano has previously been found after going missing.
The police rescue unit, dog squad, Polair, SES and paramedics are now scouring the area, with the help of members from the public, who have been searching tirelessly for Mr Sovrano for much of the day.
One concerned resident told the Illawarra Star she’d been driving around the area for hours and was “worried sick”.
“I just cant imagine how his family must be feeling right now,” she said.
“The sick feeling I have … I just want to find him. I just want him to walk him through his front door safely.”
Mr Sovrano is described as six foot tall, solid build, olive complexion.
He was last seen wearing slippers, checkered shirt, grey track pants and a two tone silver watch.
A police spokesman has confirmed the search will likely be suspended as night falls but will resume at first light.
Police fear for his safety due to his medical condition and are seeking the public’s help to find him.
Anyone who sees him is urged to contact Lake Illawarra Police on (02) 4232 5599 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.