Silver Alert Issued for Missing Lake Charles Man – 71-Year-Old with Medical Condition Disappears
Louisiana State Police have issued a Silver Alert for Charles McAlister Jr., a 71-year-old man from Lake Charles who has gone missing. McAlister was last seen at his residence on Thursday, Aug. 3, 2023. Concerns were raised when his vehicle was discovered in Cameron Parish on Friday, and he was reported missing the following day.
The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation and has enlisted the help of state police to issue the alert. Anyone with information about McAlister’s whereabouts is urged to contact the sheriff’s office at (337) 491-3605 or dial 911 immediately.
McAlister’s disappearance is of particular concern due to his medical condition. State police have determined that he left his residence without his wallet, phone, medications, and glasses. Furthermore, his white 2011 Toyota Tundra, bearing Louisiana license plate B658023, was found with damage on Rutherford Beach Road in Cameron Parish.
Described as a 71-year-old white male with gray hair and brown eyes, McAlister stands approximately 5-foot-10 and weighs 155 pounds. Police believe his memory and judgment may be impaired due to his medical condition.
Calcasieu Parish Commander of Special Services Matt Vizinot provided details on the investigation, noting that McAlister’s neighbor contacted authorities after discovering his house unlocked and him missing. Detectives discovered surveillance footage from Aug. 3 showing McAlister’s truck in Cameron Parish, which led to its eventual discovery on Aug. 4 at the intersection of La. 82 and Rutherford Beach Road.
The abandoned truck showed no signs of significant damage, leading investigators to believe it had simply gone off the road and become stuck. However, a nearby stop sign did sustain damage. The search for McAlister has included manual searches, the use of drones, and K9 units.
Despite extensive efforts to locate McAlister, there have been no confirmed sightings. Various locations, including a convenience store and a cemetery, have been investigated based on reported sightings, but none have yielded results.
McAlister’s family has confirmed that he has a heart condition requiring medication, making his disappearance all the more urgent. Authorities remain dedicated to finding him and are appealing to the public for any information that may assist in their search.
As the search for Charles McAlister Jr. continues, his family and the local community are hopeful for his safe return. With the involvement of multiple law enforcement agencies, their tireless efforts, and the collective support of the public, there is optimism that he will be located soon.
