Alexander Martinez missing: Urgent Search Underway for At-Risk 15-Year-Old Alexander Martinez in Long Beach, CA; Police Seek Community’s Assistance to Locate Missing Teen with Mental Health Concerns

Alexander Martinez missing: Urgent Search Underway for At-Risk 15-Year-Old Alexander Martinez in Long Beach, CA; Police Seek Community’s Assistance to Locate Missing Teen with Mental Health Concerns

The Long Beach Police Department has launched an urgent appeal for assistance in locating 15-year-old Alexander Martinez, whose disappearance has raised grave concerns for his safety. Reported missing as an at-risk individual, Alexander was last seen leaving his family home in the 1100 block of Gardenia Avenue at approximately 12:20 p.m. on Tuesday, November 19, 2024. Authorities are deeply concerned, citing his mental health conditions, which could render him disoriented and increase his vulnerability.

Circumstances Surrounding Alexander’s Disappearance

The teenager reportedly left his home on foot and was last seen wearing a black Tommy Hilfiger shirt and matching black Tommy Hilfiger sweatpants. In an alarming detail, it was confirmed that he was not wearing shoes when he left, underscoring the urgency of finding him swiftly. Despite exhaustive efforts by law enforcement and family, there are no leads indicating the direction he might have taken, compounding the challenges of the search.

Alexander’s family has expressed profound worry over his well-being, emphasizing that his mental health conditions make it imperative to locate him quickly. Known to become disoriented, Alexander may struggle to communicate effectively or navigate his surroundings, increasing the risk of harm.

Search Efforts Intensify in Long Beach

The Long Beach Police Department has mobilized extensive resources in the search for Alexander. Officers are canvassing local neighborhoods, parks, and public areas where he might seek refuge. Volunteers, neighbors, and community groups have also joined the effort, distributing flyers and sharing his photo on social media in the hope of generating leads.

The department’s Missing Persons Detail is leading the investigation, supported by community members who have rallied together in a show of solidarity. Social media has become a vital tool in raising awareness, with countless residents reposting details about Alexander’s disappearance across platforms to ensure maximum visibility.

Physical Description and Vulnerabilities

Alexander Martinez is described as a 15-year-old Hispanic male standing approximately six feet tall and weighing 160 pounds. He has brown hair and brown eyes, and no visible scars, tattoos, or distinguishing marks. However, his mental health issues, which may cause him to appear confused or out of place, are a significant factor heightening concern.

Alexander’s family and the police are urging the public to remain vigilant. Authorities emphasize that even seemingly minor details, such as sightings of someone matching Alexander’s description or unusual activity in the area, could prove instrumental in finding him.

Family’s Heartfelt Plea

Alexander’s disappearance has left his family distraught. In a public statement, his parents described him as a kind and gentle soul who brings joy to those around him. They have appealed to the community for help, stating, “We are desperately asking anyone with information to come forward. Alexander is loved and missed, and we just want him home safe.”

Each passing moment without contact heightens the family’s anxiety. They expressed deep gratitude for the support they have received from neighbors and local organizations, which have provided emotional and logistical help during this difficult time.

Community Response and the Power of Collective Action

The disappearance of Alexander Martinez has galvanized the Long Beach community. Residents have organized search parties, while businesses have offered their premises as staging points for coordination. Schools and local leaders have distributed flyers and information about Alexander during community events, amplifying efforts to locate him.

Public spaces such as libraries, shelters, and transit hubs are being monitored closely, as these locations are often frequented by missing individuals seeking safety or assistance. Authorities encourage the public to check these areas and to remain alert, especially in neighborhoods surrounding Gardenia Avenue.

Law Enforcement’s Appeal for Help

The Long Beach Police Department has stressed that time is of the essence in cases involving at-risk individuals, particularly minors. “We urge anyone who may have seen Alexander or knows anything about his whereabouts to contact us immediately,” a department spokesperson said. “Your information, no matter how small it may seem, could be the key to reuniting him with his family.”

Authorities have provided multiple avenues for reporting tips. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the department’s Missing Persons Detail at (562) 570-7246. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be submitted through Police Dispatch at (562) 435-6711.

What You Can Do to Help

Community members are encouraged to take proactive steps to assist in the search:

1. Share Information Widely: Post Alexander’s description and photo on social media platforms. Amplify official updates to ensure the widest possible reach.
2. Stay Observant: Keep an eye out for individuals who may appear disoriented or match Alexander’s description.
3. Check Local Areas: Search parks, alleys, and other locations where Alexander might seek shelter.
4. Provide Tips Promptly: Report any sightings or suspicious activity to the police immediately.

The Broader Context of Missing Teens

Alexander’s disappearance underscores the broader issue of at-risk youth going missing in the United States. According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), thousands of teenagers are reported missing annually, many of whom face additional challenges such as mental health conditions. The timely intervention of communities often plays a critical role in ensuring their safe recovery.

Hope Amid Uncertainty

Despite the anguish of waiting, Alexander’s family remains hopeful. The love and support pouring in from the Long Beach community have offered them solace during these uncertain times. Law enforcement, too, remains steadfast in its commitment to finding Alexander, with officers vowing to leave no stone unturned in their search.

The case of Alexander Martinez is a poignant reminder of the importance of community vigilance and compassion. As the search continues, every effort counts, and the hope of reuniting Alexander with his family remains strong.

Final Appeal:

If you have any information about Alexander Martinez, please contact the Long Beach Police Department at (562) 570-7246 or Police Dispatch at (562) 435-6711. Together, we can ensure his safe return.