Huntsville, October 12, 2025
News Summary
The search for 83-year-old Douglas Van Hale has been officially canceled by the Huntsville Police Department. He went missing on the evening of October 10, raising concerns due to a potential condition affecting his judgment. Authorities issued a missing and endangered alert and conducted search efforts in the vicinity of Serenity Lane. Community members are urged to remain vigilant and report any information regarding his whereabouts.
Huntsville Police Cancel Search for Missing 83-Year-Old
The Huntsville Police Department has officially canceled the search for Douglas Van Hale, an 83-year-old man who was reported missing earlier on Saturday, October 11, 2025. The cancellation of the search came around 4 p.m. the same day, following efforts to locate Hale after he was reported missing early that morning.
Van Hale is described as being 6 feet tall and weighing 185 pounds, with blue eyes and gray hair. At the time of his disappearance, he was last seen on the evening of Friday, October 10, 2025, at approximately 7 p.m. He was located in the vicinity of Serenity Lane in Huntsville. It was indicated that Van Hale may have a condition that could affect his judgment, prompting concern about his well-being.
Authorities issued a missing and endangered alert for Hale through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) to mobilize community assistance. Concerns were heightened due to the possibility that he might also be driving a red 2020 Infiniti QX60 with Alabama license plate 47ANXBD.
As of the latest updates, the Huntsville Police Department has urged anyone with information regarding Hale’s whereabouts to step forward by contacting them at 256-427-5466 or dial 911.
Background on the Incident
Douglas Van Hale’s disappearance raised alarms within the local community, as he was reported missing by family members, leading to immediate action from law enforcement. The police began their search operation in the area near Serenity Lane, focusing on places Hale might have traveled since he expressed a desire to get home. Despite their best efforts, the search was called off by the afternoon on the same day he was reported missing, indicating that further searches or updates from family members or community members may be needed.
Local authorities continue to monitor the situation as they encourage the community to remain vigilant and aware. The occurrence of missing person reports, especially involving the elderly or those with health issues, is always treated with urgency, stressing the importance of community involvement in ensuring the safety of all residents.
Key Information Summary
- Name: Douglas Van Hale
- Age: 83 years old
- Last Seen: October 10, 2025, at 7 p.m.
- Last Known Location: Serenity Lane, Huntsville
- Description: 6 feet tall, 185 pounds, blue eyes, gray hair
- Clothing: White t-shirt and white blanket
- Vehicle: Red 2020 Infiniti QX60, Alabama license plate 47ANXBD
- Contact: Huntsville Police Department at 256-427-5466 or dial 911
Conclusion
As Douglas Van Hale’s case continues to unfold, local authorities would like to remind the public’s involvement is highly valuable. With numerous community members concerned about Hale, staying alert may provide critical leads to ensure his safe return.
FAQ
Why was the search for Douglas Van Hale canceled?
The Huntsville Police Department canceled the search for Douglas Van Hale around 4 p.m. on Saturday, October 11, 2025.
When was Douglas Van Hale reported missing?
Hale was reported missing early Saturday morning, October 11, 2025.
What was the last known location of Douglas Van Hale?
Hale was last seen in the area of Serenity Lane in Huntsville.
What should someone do if they have information on Douglas Van Hale’s whereabouts?
The Huntsville Police Department is asking anyone with information on Hale’s whereabouts to contact them at 256-427-5466 or to call 911.
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Additional Resources
- ABC3340: Huntsville Police Seek Help for Missing 83-Year-Old
- Wikipedia: Missing Person
- WAFF: Huntsville Police Searching for Missing 83-Year-Old Man
- Google Search: Huntsville Missing Person
- WVTM13: State Alert for Missing 83-Year-Old Huntsville Man
- Google Scholar: Missing Persons Cases
- Rocket City Now: Huntsville Police Need Help Locating Missing Person
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Missing Persons
- WHNT: HPD Gives New Details on Missing 25-Year-Old Man
- Google News: Huntsville Police Missing Person
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
