Based on available data, Los Angeles has reported the highest number of missing persons among major U.S. cities.
As of early 2019, Los Angeles recorded 189 missing individuals, placing it at the top of the list for cities with the most missing persons. Understanding the scope of this issue involves looking at data from various urban centers.
Top Cities with Missing Persons Totals
While Los Angeles leads, several other major U.S. cities also report significant numbers of missing persons. These figures highlight the widespread challenge of locating individuals and the ongoing efforts by law enforcement and communities.
Here's a breakdown of the cities with the highest reported missing persons totals from data gathered in 2019:
| City | Total Missing Persons (as of early 2019) |
|---|---|
| Los Angeles | 189 |
| Phoenix | 170 |
| Houston | 165 |
| San Francisco | 163 |
| Detroit | 150 |
Please note: These figures represent specific data points and the total number of missing persons can fluctuate frequently.
Understanding Missing Persons Data
The issue of missing persons is complex, with various factors contributing to the numbers. It's important to differentiate between active missing persons cases and unidentified human remains. For instance, as of January 2019, there were 12,459 unidentified persons recorded nationally, a separate but related challenge in forensic investigations.
- Reporting: The numbers are based on reported cases, which can vary due to reporting practices, population density, and the efficiency of data collection by local authorities.
- Categories: Missing persons include a wide range of situations, from runaways and abductions to individuals who are lost, have medical emergencies, or are victims of foul play.
- Efforts: Law enforcement agencies, in conjunction with non-profit organizations and community volunteers, continuously work to locate missing individuals through investigations, public appeals, and the use of forensic science.
For more general information on missing persons statistics and efforts to find them, resources like the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) provide valuable insights into cases across the United States. Further details on missing persons statistics can often be found through reliable sources focused on public safety and crime data.
