How does a private investigator trace a missing person?

Before calling a private investigator, clearly understand it is important to identify what type of “missing person” case you have. There are three:

1.) Voluntary Missing: A person decides to disappear because of whatever problem they are experiencing in life. It can be personal circumstances, legal issues or to start a new life.

2.) Truly Missing: This is a very challenging case indeed, as the subject is making every effort to stay out of “mainstream America,” leaving no physical or digital trail.

3.) Accidental Disappearance: These matters are usually related to medical emergencies, accidents and mental health issues.

What does an experienced investigator recommend to potential clients in each category?

Listen to their consultation. If they don’t bring up these basic ideas or tools, don’t retain them.

1. Voluntary Missing: Conduct basic background research. Many of us have our own in-house computer system and don’t use the junk on the Internet. The research includes financial records, social media activity and known personal connections. Be leery of the need for unneeded surveillance. Top-echelon investigators have no need for this service, which is often done as a money-maker for those less talented “investigators.”
2. Truly Missing: Your investigator's most important talent should be the art of “interview and interrogation.” In these cases, most of the mainstream items listed above in “voluntary missing” are of limited value. Understanding from friends and family through interviews what the subject's physical, mental, academic, professional, and spiritual state was is critical.
3. Accidental Disappearance: As mentioned above, interviews of people who have recently seen or interacted with the subject are paramount. This can be very helpful in limiting the search area. Hire an investigator who knows how to conduct themselves with the local law enforcement community. They often provide details on arrests, accidents or medical incidents in the city/county of record. Investigators can call hospitals and local establishments to determine if the subject is of record. Don’t let your investigator do personal visits, as this is a way to increase billable hours.

Timeline and Challenges:

Our agency never takes any missing persons cases until they have been gone for 72 hours. Many subjects return before the three-day timeline.

In either of the three categories above, we will need an official police report and number, not an “incident” report. The official report has excellent value, including putting the subject into the NCIC (National Crime Information Center) system. A “incident” report goes into the waste basket.

There are many outstanding private investigators in the U.S. Find one who lists this service on their website. Interview them to ensure compliance with all laws. It is also essential that your PI give you great confidence in their experience, credibility and persistence.