Missing Man Found Safe

STATESVILLE, N.C. — Statesville police say a man who had been the subject of an active search by his family has now been located and is safe.

The Statesville Police Department confirmed that De’Mario Patrick, 33, has been found. Officers say they made contact with his mother, Loretta Patrick, and informed her of the update.

Police indicated that De’Mario was safe at the time he was located and told his mother he would reach out to her as soon as possible. As of the time this article was published, family members said they had not yet heard directly from him.

Patrick had last been in contact with family on January 10, prompting growing concern after days passed without communication. Relatives described the lack of contact as highly unusual, noting that De’Mario typically spoke regularly with his ex-wife and other family members.

During the search, family members said De’Mario had been staying in Statesville after previously living in Mooresville and had been seen near the Fifth Street area earlier this month. Flyers were distributed and family members canvassed local businesses and shelters in an effort to locate him.

Police have not released additional details about where De’Mario was found or the circumstances surrounding his location, citing privacy considerations.

His family says they are relieved to know he is safe and hope to speak with him soon.

We will update this article as more information becomes available.