How to Find Out If Someone Is a Missing Person

The FBI states that 105,229 people have been actively missing since Dec. 31, 2007. The number of missing persons under the age of 18 was 54,648, and 12,362 adults ages 18 to 20 were missing. There are many databases available that list these missing persons, and any available profile information.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer Internet Telephone

Research

1. Visit the website for Families and Friends of Violent Crimes Victims, Fnfvcv.org. This site advocates justice for missing persons. It keeps a list of past and recent missing persons cases updated. It also offers a support group.

2. Check with the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). When a person is reported missing, a report is filed into the NCIC. According to Fnfvcv.org, the FBI controls this database. There is no database dedicated solely to adults. The NCIC's phone number and address are available in the resources section below.

3. Contact the Washington State Patrol. The WSP keeps the missing children's clearinghouse up to date. This site receives an updated list from the National Crime Information Source on a monthly basis.

4. Search the database at the National Center for Missing Adults, Nmco.org. This site is full of information on missing persons. It even has a complete profile section.

5. Search local databases. Contact the local police department for information on missing persons in your area. If you want surrounding areas as well, contact the county police.

Tips & Warnings

• If someone you love is missing, contact the local police department. Keep yourself surrounded with loving family and friends to help you in your time of need.
• Do not hesitate a moment to report a lost child, or missing person. Hesitation often leads to disaster.

Resources

• Washington State Patrol
• National Crime information Center
• National Center for Missing Adults
• Family and Friends of Violent Crime Victims
• National Center for Missing and Exploited Children