| Full Name | David Childers |
|---|---|
| Age | 57 |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches |
| Weight | Approximately 160 pounds |
| Last Seen | May 22, 2025, near Polo Avenue, Kannapolis |
| Clothing Description | Brown or jean shorts, white shirt, khaki hat |
| Medical Condition | Dementia |
| Contact Number | Kannapolis Police Department – 704-920-4000 |
David Childers Missing: Kannapolis Police Seek Help Locating 57-Year-Old Man with Dementia
The city of Kannapolis, North Carolina, is rallying together as the urgent search continues for David Childers, a 57-year-old man who was reported missing on May 22, 2025. According to local authorities, Mr. Childers has dementia and wandered away from a group home located on Polo Avenue approximately two hours before the report was filed.
As of the most recent update at 10 a.m. on May 23, Mr. Childers has not yet been found, and the Kannapolis Police Department is actively seeking public assistance in locating him. Community members are asked to remain vigilant and to immediately report any sightings to the authorities.
What We Know So Far About David Childers
David Childers was last seen wearing brown or jean shorts, a white shirt, and a khaki hat. He is described as being approximately 5’6” in height, 160 pounds in weight, and he has a friendly demeanor. Given his medical condition, it is possible that Mr. Childers may appear disoriented, confused, or unresponsive to questions.
His disappearance is being treated with the utmost urgency, especially considering the high risk associated with individuals suffering from dementia or cognitive impairment. These cases require immediate action, as the ability to navigate, communicate, or seek help on one’s own can be severely impaired.
The Community’s Role in Finding David
In missing person cases involving dementia, time is of the essence. The first 24 to 48 hours are critical, as the individual may be traveling by foot, potentially exposed to environmental dangers such as traffic, weather conditions, or dehydration.
Local law enforcement has deployed officers in the surrounding area, including parks, streets, and wooded regions near Polo Avenue, but the eyes and ears of the public are crucial in expanding the search radius. Community members, local businesses, postal workers, rideshare drivers, and anyone in the vicinity are urged to look out for individuals matching David’s description.
How to Help in the Search for David Childers
If you are in the Kannapolis area or nearby, here are immediate actions you can take to help:
-
Be Alert: Pay close attention to people walking alone, especially older adults who may look confused or lost.
-
Check Your Surroundings: If you live near Polo Avenue, inspect your property, including backyards, sheds, and garages.
-
Share on Social Media: Spread awareness by sharing David’s photo and details across platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and neighborhood apps like Nextdoor.
-
Call the Police Immediately: If you believe you’ve seen David Childers, do not approach him abruptly—instead, call the Kannapolis Police Department at 704-920-4000.
-
Support the Family: Though his family has not been named publicly, it is likely they are enduring a period of great stress. Offering emotional support and kindness to caregivers and staff at the group home can go a long way.
Understanding Dementia and Missing Person Risks
Dementia-related wandering is a common and dangerous behavior, especially among adults in group care settings. Individuals suffering from cognitive impairments often leave familiar environments due to confusion, the desire to “go home,” or restlessness. Without the ability to recognize danger or ask for help, these individuals are highly vulnerable.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 6 out of 10 people with dementia will wander at some point, and if not found within 24 hours, up to half face serious injury or worse. That’s why raising awareness and building community response systems is vital.
In many cities, law enforcement collaborates with Silver Alert programs, which are designed to quickly disseminate information about missing elderly individuals. However, public involvement remains one of the most effective tools for recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who is David Childers?
A: David Childers is a 57-year-old man from Kannapolis, NC, reported missing on May 22, 2025. He has dementia and wandered away from a group home.
Q: What was David wearing when he went missing?
A: He was last seen wearing brown or jean shorts, a white shirt, and a khaki hat.
Q: Where was David last seen?
A: He was last seen on Polo Avenue in Kannapolis, North Carolina.
Q: Does David have any health concerns?
A: Yes, he has been diagnosed with dementia, which may affect his ability to recognize people or places and to seek help.
Q: What should I do if I think I see him?
A: Do not approach him aggressively. Call the Kannapolis Police Department immediately at 704-920-4000 and report your location and time of sighting.
Q: How can I help in the search efforts?
A: Share his information on social media, check your surroundings, stay vigilant, and encourage others to be on alert.
Let’s Bring David Home: A Call to Compassion and Action
The story of David Childers is one that resonates deeply with anyone who has cared for a vulnerable loved one. It’s a sobering reminder of how important it is to look after one another, especially our elders who may be unable to care for themselves.
David’s disappearance is not just a police matter—it’s a community matter. Together, through vigilance, compassion, and shared responsibility, we can help reunite David with those who care for him. Each set of eyes increases the chances of a safe recovery.
Let us continue to share his story, spread awareness, and take action. By doing so, we not only help one man in need—we show the strength, empathy, and unity of a community that cares.
If you see David Childers or have any information that could help, please call the Kannapolis Police Department at 704-920-4000.
#DavidChildersMissing #KannapolisMissingPerson #SilverAlertNC #FindDavidChilders #DementiaAwareness #CommunityHelp #MissingAdults #BringDavidHome