LOS ANGELES, CA – Authorities in Los Angeles County are seeking the public’s assistance in locating a 51-year-old man who has been reported missing from Compton and is considered at risk, officials said.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department identified the missing man as Richard Gillett, who was last seen around 1 p.m. on January 1 in the 800 block of South Center Avenue.
Gillett is described as a Black male, approximately 5 feet tall, weighing about 100 pounds, with brown eyes and curly gray hair. Authorities noted he has missing front teeth, which may make him easily identifiable.
When last seen, Gillett was wearing white pants, a white jacket with black markings, black shoes, and a gold watch, according to the missing persons bulletin released by the sheriff’s department.
Officials added that Gillett has a moderate intellectual disability and requires daily medication, raising concerns about his well-being if he remains unlocated.
In their appeal for information, authorities emphasized that Gillett’s family is deeply worried for his safety and are urging anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts to come forward.
Individuals with information are encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Missing Persons Unit at 323-890-5500. Those who prefer to provide tips anonymously can call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-222-8477 or submit information online at www.lacrimestoppers.org.
Officials classified Gillett as critically missing, a designation applied to individuals who may be in immediate danger due to medical conditions, mental impairment, or other circumstances that put their safety at risk.
Authorities also explained that a critically missing or at-risk person is defined as someone who meets one or more of the following criteria:
- Has no history of running away or disappearing.
- Is in critical need of medical care.
- May have been a victim of a crime, foul play, or kidnapping.
- Is unable to care for themselves or may pose a danger to their own safety or that of others.
The search effort for Gillett remains active, and investigators are reviewing surveillance footage, speaking with witnesses, and canvassing the area where he was last seen.
Further updates will be released as additional information becomes available, authorities said.
