Missing persons reporting back to normal operations after Helene in Buncombe Co.

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WSPA) – The Asheville Police Department (APD) and the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) informed the public Wednesday that the agencies’ missing reporting has returned to normal operations.

According to authorities, as of Oct. 8, APD’s ‘Helene Missing Persons Reporting’ form has been deactivated. The form was temporarily made available to help report missing persons and conduct welfare checks due to the communication disruptions following Hurricane Helene.

Officials said members of the public should use the standard procedures to report missing persons or request welfare checks.

BCSO said the agency has consolidated the missing persons reports related to Hurricane Helene that were submitted through multiple sources, including 211, routine reporting channels and the Register of Deeds.

This effort ensures there are no duplicated cases or reporting gaps according to the sheriff’s office.

Routine reporting processes have resumed as of Oct. 16 according to the agencies. Anyone with non-emergency situations should contact the APD at (828) 252-1110 or the BCSO at (828) 250-6670 .

For urgent or emergency situations, call 911.

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