> At a Glance
> – Earnest Brooks, 81, diagnosed with cognitive impairment, has been located
> – He vanished around 1:30 a.m. on December 29 near Midway Road and Belt Line Road in Addison
> – A Texas Silver Alert was issued and later updated to “found”
> – Why it matters: Rapid public alerts help bring vulnerable missing adults home safely
A late-night scare ended in relief after Earnest Brooks, the 81-year-old at the center of a statewide Silver Alert, was located less than 48 hours after he disappeared from North Texas.
The Disappearance
Brooks-described as a white male with a cognitive impairment-was last spotted near Midway Road and Belt Line Road in Addison in the early hours of December 29. Police did not disclose where or how he was found, only confirming that he is safe.
How Silver Alerts Work
When an at-risk senior goes missing, Texas authorities can push a Silver Alert to cell phones, highway signs, and news outlets. The bulletin typically includes:
- Physical description
- Clothing details
- Last known location
- Vehicle information (if applicable)
Statewide Alert Options
Texas operates eight alert programs for different emergency situations:
| Alert Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Silver Alert | Missing seniors with cognitive issues |
| AMBER Alert | Abducted children |
| Blue Alert | Suspects who harmed law enforcement |
| CLEAR Alert | Missing adults aged 18-64 |
| Endangered Missing Person Alert | At-risk missing persons not covered above |
| Active Shooter Alert | Imminent shooter threats |
| Power Outage Alert | Major utility disruptions |
| Camo Alert | Retired program for missing veterans |
Key Takeaways
- Earnest Brooks has been found safe after a Silver Alert
- Alerts can be updated in real time once the person is located
- Texas issues eight types of alerts to cover various emergencies
- Public tips often play a crucial role in quick resolutions
Authorities thanked the public for sharing the alert, proving once again that community vigilance helps vulnerable residents return home.
