LOS ANGELES, Nov 15 – Police and family members are urgently appealing for public assistance in locating Lanay Ragsdale, a 24-year-old woman with a traumatic brain injury, who has been missing for over a month from her Hollywood home.
Ragsdale was last seen around 2 p.m. on Oct. 13, leaving her residence on the 1100 block of North Wilton Place, according to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). Her condition has led authorities to classify her as a “critical missing” person, a designation for individuals considered to be at high risk.
“She may be disoriented and unaware of her surroundings due to her injury,” the LAPD said in a statement released Friday. The department emphasized that Ragsdale’s medical condition severely impacts her cognitive abilities, making her especially vulnerable.
The LAPD’s Missing Persons Unit is spearheading the search effort and believes public tips could prove vital in finding Ragsdale. Officials have asked anyone with information, no matter how minor, to come forward.
“Time is critical in cases like this,” said Detective Sara Martinez. “If anyone has seen Lanay or has information about her whereabouts, we urge you to contact us immediately.”
Ragsdale’s family issued a heartfelt plea for her safe return, describing the distress of not knowing her condition or location. “Lanay is vulnerable right now due to her brain injury,” a family representative said. “We need the community’s help to bring her back home.”
Authorities have outlined multiple ways for the public to assist in the search. Those with information are encouraged to contact the LAPD’s Missing Persons Unit at 213-996-1800, or dial 911 for immediate sightings. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or via their website at www.lacrimestoppers.org.
The urgency to locate Ragsdale has intensified with the passage of time and the approach of the holiday season. Her disappearance has sparked widespread concern, with police urging community members to share details about her case on social media and other platforms to expand the search.
As the investigation continues, authorities remain hopeful that community involvement will lead to new information and ultimately bring Ragsdale safely home. Further updates will be provided as more details emerge.
