The Alarming Increase of Missouri Missing Persons Cases

Have you ever thought about what happens when a person goes missing? Imagine, your family member or friend suddenly disappears, and you have no idea where they are. It’s a terrifying thought, but unfortunately, it’s a reality that many people in Missouri are facing. According to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs), Missouri has a particularly high rate of missing persons.

The Numbers

In 2020, more than 13,000 people were reported missing in Missouri. Of those, over 4,500 were adults, and over 8,500 were children. This is an alarming increase from previous years. To put it into perspective, that’s almost 40 people per day that go missing in Missouri alone. Some of these cases may be resolved quickly, but many are still unsolved.

Why is Missouri a Hotspot?

There are several reasons why Missouri has such a high rate of missing persons cases. One of the main reasons is its location. Missouri is situated in the center of the United States and has several major highways that pass through it. This makes it an ideal location for human trafficking, especially of young children. Additionally, Missouri has many parks and recreational areas, which can make it easier for people to go missing.

Another factor that contributes to the high rate of missing persons cases is the drug epidemic that has plagued the state for many years. People who are struggling with addiction are more likely to disappear as they may be trying to avoid law enforcement or their loved ones. Mental health issues are also a concern, as many people who suffer from mental illness may wander away and become lost.

What Can Be Done?

There are several things that can be done to help reduce the number of missing persons cases in Missouri. First, it’s important to raise awareness about the issue and educate the public on how to stay safe. This includes things like not walking alone at night, being aware of your surroundings, and taking precautions when using ride-sharing services.

Law enforcement agencies also need to be given the resources they need to investigate and solve these cases. This includes funding for technology and training for officers. Additionally, more laws need to be put in place to help protect vulnerable people, such as children and those suffering from mental illness.

Conclusion

Missouri’s high rate of missing persons cases is a cause for concern. It’s important that we work together to raise awareness and help prevent these cases from happening. By taking steps to stay safe and supporting law enforcement agencies in their investigations, we can help make our communities safer for everyone.