Police Issue Silver Alert for Missing 82-Year-Old Man

MERIDEN, CT - An 82-year-old Meriden man, who suffers from early onset dementia, was reported missing from his Andrews Street home Friday, May 27, and police have issued a Silver Alert to help find him.

Richard Plonka was last seen by his neighbor at 2 p.m., and he was operating a white 2011 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck, bearing CT Combination Plates 5C5755.

Police said that at the time, he was wearing a blue button down short sleeved shirt with a white t-shirt underneath. He also had on camouflage-style pants and canvas slip-on shoes. He also may be wearing a hat.

Additionally, Richard Plonka has gray hair and stands about 5 feet, 6 inche tall and weighs approximately 195 pounds.

"He speaks English but does have a heavy Polish accent," said police. "He has a bruise on his left wrist from his last stay in the hospital and he has a scar on his right shin."

Police added, "At this time we are concerned for Richard’s safety as he is very forgetful and he gets very confused. He may be lost and unable to find his way home. If anyone sees Richard, please contact the Meriden Police directly at (203) 630-6215."

Image: Richard Plonka via the Meriden Police Department