Urgent search underway in Peachtree City for missing man with Alzheimer's

Authorities in Peachtree City are urgently searching for Albert Novotnak, a man with Alzheimer’s who has been missing for more than a day. 

Police say Novotnak was not dressed for the cold weather when he left his home in the Interlochen subdivision off North Peachtree Parkway early Sunday morning.

Family members reported him missing around 5 a.m. after discovering he had wandered away without leaving any indication of where he might be headed. Police believe it is likely that Novotnak left the area and may have been picked up by someone unaware of his condition.

"Al is a loving guy, loves his family, loves his grandchildren, his nieces and nephews," the missing man's nephew, Jim Cox, told FOX 5. "He's just confused, and we just need to get him home."

ALBERT NOVOTNAK

Officials have been circulating photos of Novotnak and are asking anyone who may have seen him or given him a ride to contact authorities immediately. Detectives are also looking into a possible sighting 11 miles from Novotnak's Fayetteville residence. A woman told police she had an interaction there with a confused elderly man asking for directions to Walmart Sunday afternoon.

Meanwhile, his family is deeply concerned, as this is not the first time Novotnak has wandered off. On a previous occasion, someone returned him safely home.

"We’re praying for his safe return," said a family member. "We know he’s out there somewhere, and we just hope someone has seen him and will call to get him home for Christmas."

Police have searched extensively, including checking the airport and surrounding areas. The family remains hopeful for a positive outcome.

"We had a lot of help looking yesterday, people canvassing the area. And, you know, I don't really know what else to do other than to keep praying and keep looking," Cox said. "Hopefully, your audience can find him."

Anyone with information on Novotnak’s whereabouts is urged to contact Peachtree City Police.

The Source: The information in this article was provided by Albert Novotnak's family and the Peachtree City Police.

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