News Releases

Missing Autistic Male Located with the Help of Real Time Intelligence Center

For Immediate Release: Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Gaithersburg, MD – An at-risk male reported missing on Saturday, July 5, 2025, was safely located with the assistance of the Montgomery County Department of Police - Real Time Intelligence Center (RTIC).

At approximately 3:49 p.m., 3rd District officers were dispatched to the 11500 block of Lockwood Drive for a missing person call. The father reported that his 21-year-old non-verbal autistic son had run out of their apartment.

RTIC staff used camera systems to monitor the area and observed the missing young man crossing Lockwood Drive toward the White Oak Shopping Center at 3:53 p.m. Officers received updated location information by radio.

A 3rd District patrol officer arrived at 3:54 p.m. and followed him into the Giant grocery store. He was located at approximately 3:55 p.m. and reunited with his father. Officers then transported both of them home. The total time from dispatch to recovery was about seven minutes.

The RTIC acts as a hub where MCPD has the ability to access and analyze surveillance footage, intelligence data, and other relevant information in real-time. By providing fast access to evidence and facilitating the identification of suspects, or missing persons, the RTIC plays an important role in improving community safety. 

Calling 911 right away to report a missing at-risk person is important to ensure a quick police response. In the past month, the department has located more than 30 missing persons on the autism spectrum, underscoring the value of early notification.

The department’s Autism/Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Unit provides support, resources and outreach to individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. More information is also available on the unit’s Facebook page.

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Release ID: 25-321
Media Contact: S.D. Goff 
Categories: missing-person