Missing Persons Information
Fairbanks Police Department takes all missing persons and juvenile runaway cases very seriously. All cases are investigated thoroughly and we follow up on leads provided by the public. Here you will find information about what happens when someone is reported missing and what the public can do to help.
Alaska State Troopers Statewide Missing Persons Information - CLICK HERE
What happens right after someone files a missing persons report?
Missing persons reports begin with our patrol officers who will respond and gather initial information from family, friends, or witnesses about the person. They will complete a detailed report on last know locations, descriptions, any known medical factors or concerns of suicidal thoughts, where they frequent, and family or friends in the area they may meet or communicate with. Based on this initial investigation and review of the circumstances, the missing person is entered into the State and Federal database immediately. Federal requirements set time lines that require runaways to be added to the database within two hours of the report being received so there will be no delay. With the database updated, we will be notified of any contact the missing person has with law enforcement across the United States if that agency runs the person's name and date of birth.
Depending on the situation, different forms of communication are used to get the word out about the missing person, including social media posts, Nixle Alerts, Silver Alerts, Amber Alerts, and more.
We request information from the public and follow up on leads immediately. Sometimes technology can be used to assist in the search, such as social media or phone information.
Does FPD issue Silver and Amber Alerts?
Yes. Silver Alerts and Amber Alerts can be issued only when specific requirements are met. Silver and Amber Alerts are voluntary partnerships between law enforcement agencies, state and local government and Alaska’s media and broadcasters to alert the public when a vulnerable adult is missing and believed to be in serious danger or when a child abduction is believed to have taken place. When someone is reported missing, officers will review the circumstances of the situation to see if either of these alerts may be issued. Department of Public Safety approves the issuance.
What determines which agency investigates a missing person?
The last known location of the individual determines what agency investigates the missing persons report.
What information can Fairbanks Police Department put out?
UPDATES: While we can share our missing persons information with all local law enforcement agencies and can help get the word out regarding missing persons being investigated by other agencies, we cannot provide official updates on cases that are outside of our jurisdiction.
CASE INFORMATION: We do our best to provide relevant information to the public that may help track down a missing person. That information includes last known location and description of the missing person. Sometimes there is information about a missing person that the family does not want Fairbanks Police to release. That information may relate to mental issues, addiction problems, suicidal ideation, etc.
Does FPD work with Missing & Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Task Force?
Yes. On a regular basis we share information and go over active and cold case information with members of the task force.
How long do I have to wait to report someone missing?
There is no time requirement for reporting someone missing. The sooner you can get information to police, the better. It is also helpful to let us know as soon as you hear from a missing person.
How can the community help?
The best way to help is by providing any information you have on a missing person in a timely manner. Check law enforcement bulletins and social media accounts to view missing persons and help keep an eye out for them. Encourage community members to help law enforcement and help family members of missing persons locate their loved ones.
Call (907) 450-6500 or email investigations@fairbanks.us if you have any information about a missing person.
