Drones With Thermal Imaging Save Elderly Man Lost in Malibu

By Jennifer A.. Jan 28, 2025

A 78-year-old man with dementia who went missing in Malibu just days before Christmas was found safely, thanks to the quick work of first responders and the cutting-edge use of drones with thermal imaging technology. The rescue has been hailed as a holiday miracle and showcases the growing potential of technology in life-saving operations.

A Frightening Disappearance

The man, whose name has not been released, left his home at 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 23, 2024, to retrieve his mail. When he failed to return, his family searched the area but couldn’t find him. By 7:30 p.m., with temperatures dropping below 50°F, they alerted authorities. Deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Lost Hills/Malibu Station immediately launched a search and rescue mission. Time was of the essence as the man was not dressed for the cold and has a history of dementia.

Technology to the Rescue

The rescue team deployed drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras to scan the surrounding area. These drones, operated by FAA-certified pilots, can detect heat signatures even in complete darkness or through thick vegetation. At approximately 8:50 p.m., one of the drones picked up a thermal image of the person lying in dense brush about a quarter-mile from the missing man’s home.

Search and rescue teams quickly reached the location. The man was cold, confused, and unable to walk due to a minor fall, but otherwise safe. He was wrapped in a blanket, placed in a rescue basket, and transported to a local hospital for evaluation.

The Future of Search and Rescue

The operation highlights the incredible potential of drones with thermal imaging to aid in search and rescue missions. In cases where time is critical, this technology can locate missing persons far faster than traditional methods.

Officials called the rescue a “holiday miracle,” and social media posts from the Malibu Search and Rescue Team showcased the operation, including a thermal image of the man that ultimately led to his discovery.

References: Drones with thermal imaging cameras locate elderly man lost in Malibu | Thermal imaging drone helps find elderly man with dementia lost in Malibu