Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office announced early Saturday that Joseph Provenzola, a 74‑year‑old man from Michigan who went missing Friday night, has been located and is safe. The senior citizen was seen walking south along U.S. 41 at Ortiz Boulevard in North Port at 4:08 a.m., wrapped in a blanket.
Background and recent sightings
Provenzola was last seen leaving a residence in Sarasota County around 10 p.m. on November 13. He is in Florida visiting family and is unfamiliar with the area. While physically capable of walking long distances, he is diabetic and exhibits clear signs of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, which often cause disorientation.
This is the third time Provenzola has left a home unnoticed since arriving in the state. In prior incidents he trekked significant stretches of U.S. 41, heading both north and south. The most recent prior search ended with deputies finding him nearly 13 miles away near HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital in Port Charlotte.
Physical description
Provenzola is a white male, standing about 5 feet 4 inches tall, with white and gray hair and a beard. At the time of the latest sighting he was wearing blue jeans, dark shoes and a brown shirt, and had a blanket wrapped around his shoulders.
Deputies’ request
The sheriff’s office urges anyone who sees Provenzola to contact local law enforcement immediately so first responders can reach him promptly. The department continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as needed.
Community response
Local residents have expressed relief that the missing senior has been found safe. The incident highlights the importance of community vigilance and the dedication of Sarasota County deputies in caring for vulnerable individuals.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
