Drone Aids Search for Missing Woman with Dementia in New Jersey

A drone played a crucial role in the successful search for a woman with dementia who went missing in Westwood, New Jersey. On a sunny afternoon in October 2023, John Heffernan returned home with his wife, who is nonverbal and suffers from dementia, after a medical appointment. Heffernan suggested they enjoy the pleasant weather on their front porch. Shortly after, he went downstairs to attend to some laundry, leaving her momentarily unattended.

When Heffernan returned just a few minutes later, he discovered that his wife was no longer on the porch. Concerned for her safety, he quickly contacted the local police, initiating a search operation.

The situation escalated rapidly. Heffernan’s daughter took to social media, sharing a photo of her mother on Facebook, which helped mobilize the community. Neighbors, some of whom Heffernan had never met, joined the search, highlighting the neighborhood’s solidarity.

In addition to community efforts, the Westwood Police Department deployed a K9 unit to assist in the search. Unfortunately, the unit lost the scent, increasing the anxiety of the family as dusk approached. It was at this critical moment that the police decided to use a drone in the search.

The drone, which can cover large areas quickly, proved effective. Less than a mile from where she had vanished, it located the missing woman. Officers on the ground were able to reach her location, where she was found with scrapes and bruises but alive. According to Heffernan, “She must have tripped over a curb and then rolled down an embankment.”

Although she had been missing for approximately four hours, the family was relieved to have her back. Heffernan expressed gratitude, noting that if the incident had occurred in winter, with colder temperatures, the outcome might have been tragically different.

Michael Pontillo, Chief of Police for Westwood, emphasized the importance of community involvement in such situations. He stated, “Anytime that we have a happy ending to something like this, it’s a win for everybody. It just shows you what a tight-knit community is all about.”

The successful rescue serves as a reminder of the effective use of technology in emergency situations and the power of community engagement. The Heffernan family can now cherish their time together once again, thanks to the combined efforts of law enforcement and local residents.