‘Operation Lifesaver’ cited by WC Sheriff’s Office in locating missing person

According to its Facebook page, the Warren County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a missing person with dementia at approximately 1:45 p.m. Sunday, June 12. This individual, Mr. O’Reilly is a “Project Lifesaver” client, the sheriff’s office noted. Deputies responded to his last known location in the area of Thunderbird Drive and utilizing Project Lifesaver equipment were able to quickly locate Mr. O’Reilly in nearby woods. He was checked by EMS personnel and returned safely to his family.

An online search (projectlifesaver.org) indicates “Operation Lifesaver” is a “501-c3 community-based public safety non-profit” founded in Chesapeake, VA in 1999. FRPD and WCSO, among other regional law enforcement departments, are listed as local “partners”. A direct contact number of “877 580-LIFE” was listed for the organization, which now has an international presence. Its focus is enabling the bringing of special needs people reported missing, safely home to their families. The sheriff’s office also listed a website link to information on the organization at warrencountysheriff.org/project-lifesaver

Mr. O’Reilly stopped for a picture with Sgt. Fritts and Lt. Laing, thanking them for finding him and getting him and his dog out of the woods safely. Photo WCSO Facebook page