TOWNSEND — An elderly man with dementia who wandered away from his home was found deep in the woods by Townsend Police and rescue teams, thanks to the assistance of drone technology, authorities said Sunday.
The Townsend Police Department responded to a call on May 19 after the man was reported missing.
Officers immediately searched the nearby streets and wooded areas surrounding the home.
As the search expanded, they enlisted the help of the North Eastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council (NEMLEC) K9 and Drone Units.
The drone, piloted by Officer Minghella of the Woburn Police Department, spotted the man in a remote part of the woods, in a location challenging for search parties to reach on foot.
Ground teams were guided to the man’s location by the drone.
Upon discovery, the man was found in poor health and unable to walk.
Rescuers carried him back to the road where Townsend Fire EMS evaluated his condition and transported him to a local hospital.
He is expected to make a full recovery.
The successful rescue highlighted the importance of advanced technology in search and rescue operations and showcased interdepartmental cooperation.
The Townsend Police Department has extended its gratitude to the NEMLEC K9 and Drone Units for their crucial support during the operation.
