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Spring Hill Today
By the People, for the People
Silver Alert Issued for Missing Spring Hill Man
79-year-old Richard Ratliff reported missing, last seen driving orange Chevy Blazer
Published on Mar. 8, 2026
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The Hernando County Sheriff's Office has issued a Local Silver Alert for 79-year-old Richard Ratliff, who was reported missing on Saturday afternoon after driving away from his home in Spring Hill, Florida. Ratliff's vehicle was later spotted in the vicinity of Cortez Boulevard and Mariner Boulevard, and authorities say he is showing signs of early-onset dementia.
Why it matters
Silver Alerts are issued to help locate missing elderly or cognitively impaired individuals who may be in danger. Ratliff's disappearance raises concerns about his wellbeing and the need for increased support and resources for those living with dementia.
The details
According to the Sheriff's Office, Ratliff was last seen by family members at approximately 1:51 p.m. as he drove away from a residence located on Timbercrest Road in Spring Hill. His vehicle, a 2021 Chevrolet Blazer that is orange with a black top and Florida license plate 78DSKN, was later spotted around 4 p.m. in the vicinity of Cortez Boulevard and Mariner Boulevard.
- Ratliff was last seen by family members at approximately 1:51 p.m. on Saturday.
- Ratliff's vehicle was spotted around 4 p.m. on Saturday in the vicinity of Cortez Boulevard and Mariner Boulevard.
The players
Richard Ratliff
A 79-year-old man reported missing in Spring Hill, Florida, who is showing signs of early-onset dementia.
Hernando County Sheriff's Office
The law enforcement agency that issued the Local Silver Alert for Richard Ratliff.
What’s next
The Sheriff's Office is asking anyone with information about Ratliff's whereabouts to call 352-754-6830 or their local law enforcement agency.
The takeaway
This case highlights the importance of community awareness and support for individuals living with dementia, as well as the need for effective emergency response systems to locate missing vulnerable adults quickly and safely.
