Guide · 5 min read
What to do when someone goes missing
When someone you love can't be reached and it isn't like them, the first hours matter. Here is what to do, in order.
- Written byOur Nashville detectives
- UpdatedOctober 25, 2026
- Reading time5 minutes
- Related serviceMissing persons
- Call police right away. There is no requirement to wait 24 hours.
- Gather a recent photo, description, phone number, vehicle details and last known location.
- A detective can work alongside police, especially when the case involves an adult who may have left voluntarily.
Call the police first
Call 911 if you believe the person is in danger, or the police non-emergency line otherwise. In Nashville, that is Metro Nashville Police at 615-862-8600. You do not need to wait 24 hours to report someone missing. Children, older adults, and people with medical or mental health conditions are treated with particular urgency.
Gather this information
- A recent, clear photo
- Height, weight, hair, clothing last seen in, and any distinguishing marks
- Phone number and carrier, and any social media accounts
- Vehicle make, model, color and plate
- Where and when they were last seen, and with whom
- Medications or conditions
- Bank or card information, which police can use to look for activity
What family can do
- Check with friends, coworkers, hospitals and the places they frequent
- Keep your phone on and someone at home in case they return
- Share the police case number with anyone helping
- Be careful with social media posts; share accurate information, and let police know about tips
When a detective helps
Police may treat a competent adult who appears to have left voluntarily as a low priority. That is when families call us. We work alongside police, not around them, sharing what we find. See our missing person investigations.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and every situation is different; talk to a Tennessee attorney about your case. Last reviewed October 25, 2026.
When you’re ready
How we can help
Licensed Tennessee private detectives, lawful methods, and reports written for the people who will read them.
Do you have to wait 24 hours to report a missing person?
No. Report as soon as you believe someone is missing, especially if they are a child, elderly, or medically vulnerable.
Can a private investigator look for a missing adult?
Yes. Detectives often help when police have limited resources for an adult who may have left voluntarily.
Talk it through with a detective.
Confidential, no-pressure. We’ll tell you honestly whether a detective is worth it for your situation.