Robert La Polla, a 47-year-old man from Florida, has been missing since January after he checked out of a hospital in Fort Pierce, according to reports from local authorities and his family. His disappearance has left loved ones deeply concerned and searching relentlessly for answers.
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La Polla’s last known whereabouts were on January 8, when he left HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital. His family, particularly his sister Aubrey Finley, has been actively investigating his disappearance, combing through woods and underpasses in an effort to find him. Finley spoke with CBS affiliate WPEC, expressing the family’s desperation, stating, “We’ve gone through woods, under bridges, talking to people everywhere in Fort Pierce, trying to find anything that brings us to him.”
The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that La Polla’s phone was switched off six days after he went missing, which has heightened concerns for his safety. The authorities have described him as standing 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighing approximately 170 pounds, with distinguishing features that include brown hair and brown eyes. His tattoos also provide key identifiers, including scars on his wrists, a devil and skull tattoo on his right arm, and a rosary with a cross and initials on his left arm.
Mental health appears to have played a role in La Polla’s situation, as he has been grappling with the emotional fallout from the loss of their parents, according to Finley. “Everything kind of fell apart,” she recalled, highlighting the difficult period both siblings experienced. Despite the challenges, she noted that they remained in regular contact prior to his disappearance, always supporting one another.
La Polla has a young daughter who is anxiously waiting for her father’s return. Finley shared her family’s heartache, stating, “I miss him. She misses him,” reinforcing the sense of love and support surrounding La Polla’s life. The family is desperate for any information that could lead to his safe return.
In a statement to PEOPLE, the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office noted that there have been no significant updates regarding La Polla’s case as of early October. The ongoing lack of news has only increased the anxiety felt by his family and friends. They continue to appeal to the public for help, urging anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward.
People who may have seen La Polla are encouraged to report any relevant information by calling 911 or contacting Detective Corporal Drawdy at the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office on 772-462-3602. Alternatively, tips can be sent via email to CrimeInfo@stluciesheriff.gov. The family’s search persists, both for closure and in hope that he may still be found safe.
The case underscores the importance of community involvement in locating missing persons. Finley has expressed gratitude for the help the family has received from friends and locals who have joined in the search for her brother.
In light of La Polla’s situation, those who are struggling with mental health issues or personal crises are reminded that support is available. Anyone facing such challenges can reach out and talk to someone by calling or texting the number 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org for assistance, which is available 24/7. The focus remains on Robert La Polla, a man cherished by those who love him, whose safe return is the hope shared by many.