Hailey
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) has issued a Kasey Alert for a missing elderly man, Lewis H. Whitley, aged 82, who disappeared under potentially dangerous circumstances.
The alert was triggered after officials deemed his medical condition and possible possession of a firearm a credible public safety concern.
Details of the Missing Person
According to the OHP, Lewis H. Whitley is described as a 6-foot-tall male, weighing approximately 195 pounds. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing tan pants and a dark-colored shirt.
His age, appearance, and clothing description are being circulated statewide in hopes that someone may recognize him or his vehicle.
Mental Health Condition and Armed Status
One of the most serious concerns surrounding Whitley’s disappearance is his diagnosed bipolar disorder, a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that may include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).
In such cases, disorientation, paranoia, or impulsive behavior are not uncommon.
Authorities have also warned the public that Whitley may be armed with a pistol, which significantly elevates the risk to both himself and others. This factor has prompted law enforcement to treat the situation as high-risk and time-sensitive.
Vehicle and Travel Information
Whitley was last seen driving a gray Nissan Frontier, a midsize pickup truck popular for its versatility. Though the license plate number has not been released, drivers are urged to watch for any gray Frontier models being operated by someone matching Whitley’s description.
Officials believe he may still be in the Oklahoma City metro area or potentially heading toward a rural location.
Public Safety Advisory: Do Not Approach
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol strongly advises that members of the public should not attempt to approach or confront Whitley under any circumstance.
Due to the potential presence of a firearm and his unstable mental condition, any direct contact could escalate the situation.
Instead, the safest and most responsible action is to call 911 immediately if you believe you have seen Whitley or his vehicle. Even small details—such as a partial license plate, time of sighting, or direction of travel—can significantly aid the investigation.
What Is the Kasey Alert System?
The Kasey Alert system is a specialized public alert program used in Oklahoma for locating missing adults who suffer from cognitive or psychological conditions, such as bipolar disorder, dementia, or Alzheimer’s disease.
The system is designed to rapidly disseminate critical information to the public and law enforcement agencies, improving the chances of a swift and safe recovery.
It was named to raise awareness of vulnerable adults and to help fill a gap where traditional Amber Alerts do not apply due to age or case criteria.
Why This Case Matters
This alert underscores a growing concern among law enforcement and mental health professionals: the intersection of aging, mental illness, and public safety. Cases like Whitley’s highlight how quickly a routine day can turn dangerous when vulnerable individuals go missing.
The OHP, local agencies, and volunteers are actively working together, using all available resources—including media outreach, public alerts, and community tips—to locate Whitley and ensure his safety.
How the Public Can Help
Here are several ways residents can assist:
- Stay Alert: Pay close attention to roadways, parking lots, and neighborhoods for any sign of the gray Nissan Frontier or a man matching Whitley’s description.
- Report Immediately: If you spot anything unusual or even remotely fitting the alert details, call 911 immediately.
- Share the Alert: Post and share information about the Kasey Alert on social media or local community platforms to expand the alert’s reach.
- Avoid Direct Contact: Do not try to assist Whitley on your own. Mental health emergencies involving firearms require professional intervention.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol continues to urge the public to be on high alert for Lewis H. Whitley, an 82-year-old man with bipolar disorder, who is believed to be armed and driving a gray Nissan Frontier.
Every second counts in locating Whitley and ensuring he receives the help and care he needs. If you have any information or think you’ve seen him, call 911 immediately. Your vigilance could save a life.