The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's assistance in locating Maria Salazar, 27. On June 7, 2023, HCSO and FDLE issued a Purple Alert for Salazar.
Salazar was reported missing earlier today, June 7, 2023, after she left her Assisted Living Facility on foot. The facility is located on Forest Hills Drive in Brandon. She is considered endangered due to a mental health diagnosis and an intellectual learning disability.
Described as a Hispanic female, Maria Salazar is approximately 5'2" tall, weighing around 140 pounds. She has short black hair styled in a ponytail and brown eyes.
At the time of her disappearance, she was wearing a blue short-sleeved shirt with horizontal white stripes, black and brown casual pants, and black and brown athletic shoes. Maria Salazar has the intellectual learning mentality of a 6th grader and requires special care and attention.
"We are deeply concerned about Maria's well-being, especially considering her vulnerable condition," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "We are working to locate her and bring her back to safety."
HCSO is urging anyone who may have seen Maria Salazar or has information about her whereabouts to call 813-247-8200
.BACKGROUND: A "Purple Alert" is a designation used to assist in locating individuals with certain cognitive, developmental, or intellectual disabilities who have gone missing and are at risk of harm or injury. It is similar to other alert systems such as Amber Alerts for missing children or Silver Alerts for missing elderly individuals. The Purple Alert aims to mobilize the community and law enforcement agencies to locate and ensure the safety of individuals with disabilities who may be unable to communicate or care for themselves appropriately