News Summary
An 80-year-old man suffering from dementia, Gerald Glenn Sparks, was found safe after being missing for days. His disappearance prompted a multi-state search led by law enforcement, aided by community volunteers. Sparks was last seen leaving his home to play pool, and despite concerns for his health due to missed medications, he was eventually located unharmed in North Carolina. This incident highlights the risks associated with dementia and the importance of community vigilance in similar situations.
Roebuck, South Carolina — An extensive search spanning multiple states concluded successfully when 80-year-old Gerald Glenn Sparks, who suffers from dementia, was found safe. Sparks had been missing since July 11, 2025, raising significant concern among local authorities and his family.
Sparks was last seen leaving his home on Hobbysville Road in Roebuck around 1:30 p.m. to allegedly partake in a game of pool in Spartanburg. Reports indicated that he did not take his prescribed medications for two days prior to his disappearance, heightening fears for his well-being.
The situation escalated when authorities reviewed camera footage, which revealed Sparks traveling in his Hyundai Elantra through Georgia and Tennessee overnight on July 11. His car was tracked entering North Carolina on the morning of July 12, where surveillance footage captured him in Burke County at approximately 1:18 p.m.
As concerns mounted, the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office urgently requested assistance from the public in locating Sparks. His disappearance marked a significant distressing event for his family and the community, who rallied to mobilize resources for the search.
Search Efforts
The search for Sparks involved multiple law enforcement agencies and community volunteers, demonstrating a cooperative effort across state lines. Various tips and sightings were pursued, as the authorities communicated with different jurisdictions to enhance the search effectiveness.
On July 12, following a thorough investigation and relentless efforts from the authorities and community, it was confirmed that Sparks was located in Buncombe County, North Carolina, safe and unharmed. His recovery marked a pivotal moment for both his loved ones and the teams involved in the exhaustive search.
Understanding the Risks of Dementia
Dementia is a complex condition affecting many elderly individuals, often impairing their cognitive abilities, including memory and decision-making. Those diagnosed with dementia can become disoriented and make spontaneous decisions, such as leaving their homes without alerting family members.
It is not uncommon for individuals with dementia to wander, and such instances can lead to significant risks, especially if they are not taking their medications. The combination of the medical condition and environmental challenges can escalate into critical situations, prompting immediate action from friends, family, and authorities.
Conclusion
This incident serves as a reminder about the importance of vigilance in monitoring the well-being of individuals suffering from dementia. Family members are encouraged to implement strategies that minimize risks associated with wandering, including the use of identification methods and providing caregivers with clear instructions.
Authorities have reiterated the importance of community awareness and responsiveness to such cases, and they continue to encourage anyone with information regarding missing persons to contact law enforcement immediately. The successful outcome of Gerald Sparks’ case underscores the impact of collaborative search efforts and community support in safeguarding the welfare of vulnerable individuals.
The Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office and other involved agencies have expressed their gratitude to the public for their assistance and vigilance during the search, emphasizing that community awareness can play a crucial role in resolving similar situations.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
South Carolina Chamber Calls for Lutnick’s Dismissal Over Social Security Comments
Spartanburg Woman Found Safe After Going Missing
Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina: Missing Man with Dementia
- Wikipedia: Dementia
- WSPA: Man with Dementia Reported Missing
- Google Search: Missing Persons Search Strategies
- WYFF4: Deputies Ask for Public Assistance
- Google Scholar: Dementia Caregivers Strategies
- Fox Carolina: Body Found Identified
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Dementia
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
