Reno Police Searched for Missing 88-Year-Old Man
Authorities are asking for the public's help to locate a man missing since Oct. 11 near Sutro and Selmi.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Alzheimer’s
Reno Police are searching for 88-year-old Jose Cortez-Villa, who went missing after leaving his residence near Sutro Street and Selmi Drive. Mr. Cortez-Villa, who experiences memory loss, was last seen wearing a blue jacket and brown pants.
Why it matters
The search is critical due to the missing man's age and documented medical conditions that require immediate attention. Residents in the surrounding neighborhoods are encouraged to report any sightings to local authorities.
Official records describe the subject as 5 feet 7 inches tall, weighing 170 pounds, with a gray beard and brown eyes. His current location remains unknown following his disappearance on Oct. 11.
The players
Reno Police Department
The local law enforcement agency leading the search for the missing man.
Jose Cortez-Villa
The 88-year-old man who was reported missing from his residence.
The details
The Reno Police Department responded to the area of Sutro Street and Selmi Drive to initiate the search for Mr. Cortez-Villa. He is known to suffer from memory loss, which heightens concerns for his safety as he moves through the community. Officers are requesting that anyone who may have seen him or possesses information on his location contact them immediately.
Timeline
October 11, 2026: Jose Cortez-Villa was reported missing to the Reno Police Department.
The Truckee Meadows View
This search aligns with the community's established protocols for locating vulnerable seniors who may be affected by cognitive impairment. It follows the standard response pattern for missing person cases involving the Silver Alert program criteria.
Neighbors in the vicinity of Sutro Street and Selmi Drive should check their properties and doorbell cameras for any sign of the missing man. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Reno Police non-emergency line at 775-334-2121 or reach out to Secret Witness at 775-322-4900.
The takeaway
The Reno Police Department asks that residents maintain a watchful eye while the search for Mr. Cortez-Villa continues. Please report any potential sightings immediately by calling the non-emergency line at 775-334-2121 or Secret Witness at 775-322-4900.
Further reading
For more updates on health-related safety notices, visit Alzheimer’s.
