The City of New Orleans announced on May 22 the launch of the “Bryan’s Call” Endangered Missing Persons Alert, a new local safety alert system set to begin operating across the city on May 25. The initiative is designed to help locate missing vulnerable adults and children who do not qualify for existing AMBER or Silver Alerts.
This new program aims to fill a gap in current emergency notification systems by providing alerts for individuals whose cases may not meet strict state or federal criteria. The system was developed after Bryan Vazquez went missing in New Orleans and his case did not meet requirements for an AMBER Alert, prompting then Council Vice President Helena Moreno to pursue this effort.
“As Mayor of New Orleans, I’m proud to be able to see this piece of legislation come full circle. From the very start, when I served as City Council Vice President, this effort was all about dignity, safety, and urgency. No family should ever be told their missing and vulnerable child, parent, or loved one doesn’t qualify for help,” said Mayor Helena Moreno. “In those terrifying moments, every second is precious, and this program is the inclusive lifeline that brings someone’s family member home, no matter how old they are, or their circumstances.”
Claire Tibbetts, Executive Director for Autism Society of Greater New Orleans said: “I want to thank Mayor Moreno and the City of New Orleans for working so quickly to create this dedicated alert system for Disabled and vulnerable individuals who often do not qualify for Amber or Silver Alerts. Wandering from safe locations presents a significant risk to the life and health of disabled and vulnerable individuals of all ages… Those deaths are preventable, and alert systems like this can make it easier to locate a missing individual more quickly… A faster response WILL save lives. This alert system presents a positive step forward for the safeguarding of vulnerable and disabled individuals in our community.”
The guidelines established by NOPD (New Orleans Police Department), OPCD (Orleans Parish Communications District), and NOCEM (New Orleans Office of Coordination and Emergency Management) include clear definitions for eligible cases; standardized activation criteria; required details such as physical descriptions; last known location; medical considerations; as well as procedures ensuring compatibility with existing AMBER Alert and Silver Alert programs.
Unlike similar proposed legislation at the state level which focuses solely on children, “Bryan’s Call” will cover both adults with cognitive or physical challenges as well as children who do not meet other alert criteria.
Residents can find more information at https://nola.gov/bryanscall/ or submit tips via Crimestoppers at (504) 821-2222.