UPDATE: JUNE 20, 2023
The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office is happy to report that Ms. Mattie Fleming has been located safely in Tampa. She was first reported missing on June 17, 2023.
"We are grateful to learn that Mattie has been located and safely returned to her living facility," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "It is always a concern and top priority in locating individuals who have certain medical conditions. We appreciate the public's awareness and help in locating Mattie."
The Purple Alert issued for Mattie Fleming has been canceled.
ORIGINAL RELEASE: The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's help in finding Mattie Fleming, 66. On June 17, 2023, HCSO and FDLE issued a Purple Alert for Fleming.
Fleming was reported missing at 12 p.m. today. She was last seen at Cox Adult Living Facility, located at 1906 Oscar Cox Trail in Plant City, on Friday evening. She was seen walking towards E State Road 60 from Smith Ryals Road.
Fleming did not make any statements about harming herself but does have medical issues which require her to walk with a walker. She is approximately 5'05, 140 pounds, and has short black curly hair or an unknown color wig.
"We're extremely concerned about Mattie's well-being, especially given her medical condition," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "We hope that with the community's help, we'll be able to locate her and bring her back to safety."
HCSO urges anyone who may have seen Mattie Fleming 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.