File a Missing Person Report

There is no time limit that you must wait to report a person as missing, whether he/she is considered missing or a runaway. You do not have to wait 48 hours to file a report. The MPD offers a Missing Persons Guide to help navigate the process if you wish to file a report.

If you have information about any of these cases, please:

• Contact the Metropolitan Police Department at (202) 727-9099 or
• Text your tip to the Department's TEXT TIP LINE to 50411.

Reporting a Missing Child

Do not wait 48 hours to report your child missing. There is no time limit that you must wait to report a person as missing, whether he/she is considered missing or a runaway.

• Five Steps to Be Prepared
• What to Do if Your Child is Missing
• What Will Happen
• Resources from the office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention
• Telephone Numbers and Links

Providing Missing Person Data

• Missing Person File: Data Collection Entry Guide [PDF]
  Enter information about the person into this form.
  A dentist should complete pages 28-36 of this file.

Missing Persons Guide

The Missing Persons Guide instructs parents or guardians how to take action on missing or runaway children. The guide also provides parents with instructions on immediate action for missing children. The first 48 hours following a missing or runaway episode are the most important in locating your child. While many runaway children return home, or—in the case of missing children—are located during this period, it is critical to take every action available to help locate and safeguard your children.

• Download a card to carry about Reporting Your Missing Child.

Resources in Spanish

• Cuando su niño desaparece: Una guía para la supervivencia de la familia [PDF]

Persons other than children or teens who are considered missing are handled by the district police stations. If you feel this situation is serious, please dial 911 or locate your district station.