A Silver Alert is in effect in the Hill Country as Marble Falls police ask for the public’s help locating 81-year-old Joe Hernandez, who went missing Wednesday night. Investigators say Hernandez was last seen at approximately 10:30 p.m. in the 600 block of South Avenue L in Marble Falls, according to the Marble Falls Police Department.

Police say he may be traveling in a blue Ford F-150 with Texas license plate KWY5116. Hernandez has been diagnosed with a cognitive impairment, and officers believe his disappearance poses a credible threat to his health and safety, the Marble Falls Police Department said. Anyone with information is urged to call 830-693-3611.

What police say

Authorities are asking residents across Marble Falls and neighboring communities to watch for Hernandez and the pickup described in the alert. The last known sighting places him near South Avenue L at about 10:30 p.m. Wednesday, and the vehicle—a blue Ford F-150 bearing Texas plate KWY5116—is a key identifier, according to the Marble Falls Police Department. Because of his cognitive impairment, police consider Hernandez particularly vulnerable and are treating the case with urgency.

How to help

Police emphasize that timely, precise tips help narrow search areas and guide officers. Based on guidance from the Marble Falls Police Department and standard law-enforcement best practices:

  • Note the exact location, time, and direction of travel if you see Hernandez or the blue Ford F-150 (plate KWY5116)
  • Observe from a safe distance; do not attempt to confront or detain
  • Call the Marble Falls Police Department immediately at 830-693-3611 to report what you saw
  • If an encounter appears imminent or life-threatening, call 911

Why Silver Alerts matter

Texas uses Silver Alerts to quickly spread information when an adult with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or another cognitive impairment goes missing and is believed to be in danger. The program mobilizes law enforcement, broadcasters, and the public to widen the search area and speed safe recoveries, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Older adults with cognitive impairments face elevated risks when they become disoriented or separated from familiar surroundings. They may struggle to recognize landmarks, communicate needs, or seek help, and they can be vulnerable to weather and environmental hazards. Those factors make time-critical alerts and early, targeted searches essential, the Alzheimer’s Association notes.

Community mobilization in Marble Falls

With a population of roughly 7,000 and a reputation for strong civic engagement, Marble Falls is the kind of close-knit community that can move quickly when a neighbor needs help, according to the Marble Falls/Lake LBJ Chamber of Commerce. Local businesses, faith groups, and volunteer organizations can assist by sharing verified police information, checking exterior cameras, and staying alert for the vehicle description.

For organized search efforts, central coordination prevents overlap and keeps responders safe. Search guidance from NamUs recommends dividing areas into sectors, prioritizing high-risk locations such as lakeshores, parks, walking trails, busy roadways, late-night businesses, public restrooms, and shelters, and routing all tips through a single point of contact so investigators can cross-check times and locations. Marble Falls police ask that any volunteer efforts be coordinated with their department and that safety remain the top priority.

Support for families and caregivers

Families of people living with cognitive impairments can take steps that aid rapid response while respecting dignity and privacy. The Alzheimer’s Association recommends keeping recent photos and detailed descriptions on hand for police, sharing information about routines and likely destinations, considering ID bracelets or wallet cards with emergency contacts, and discussing appropriate tracking or safety options with healthcare providers.

Police continue to investigate and follow up on leads in Hernandez’s case. Residents across the Highland Lakes region are encouraged to keep an eye out for an 81-year-old man and a blue Ford F-150 with Texas plate KWY5116. Anyone with information should contact the Marble Falls Police Department at 830-693-3611. In emergencies or if immediate assistance is needed, call 911.