Arizona DPS Issues SAFE Alert for Missing Phoenix Woman
Authorities are searching for an 88-year-old woman who went missing in Phoenix earlier this week.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Emergency Response
The Arizona Department of Public Safety has issued a SAFE Alert for 88-year-old Maria Martinez De Aranda, who was last seen on October 24. Officials are concerned for her safety as she has a medical condition that may cause confusion.
Why it matters
The alert is designed to help local law enforcement quickly locate vulnerable individuals. Public assistance is vital for finding those who may be unable to navigate safely or seek help on their own.
The missing individual is described as 5-foot-9 and weighing 109 pounds. She was last seen wearing a black head scarf and gray leggings, carrying a red purse and a small black roller suitcase.
The players
Arizona Department of Public Safety
This state-level agency is responsible for law enforcement, highway patrol, and the issuance of public safety alerts.
Phoenix Police Department
This municipal law enforcement agency provides police services to the city of Phoenix and is currently leading the local search efforts.
Maria Martinez De Aranda
She is an 88-year-old woman who has been reported missing and is the subject of the current state-wide alert.
The details
Maria Martinez De Aranda was last seen near 31st Avenue and Elliot Road. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Phoenix Police Department at 602-262-6151 or dial 911.
Timeline
Maria Martinez De Aranda was last seen at 7 a.m. on October 24, 2026.
Seasonal Patterns
The activation of the SAFE Alert system follows the established protocol for managing missing persons aged 65 and older. This system replaced the previous Silver Alerts in Arizona to streamline the process for locating individuals with cognitive disabilities.
Residents are urged to keep a watchful eye for Maria Martinez De Aranda in the vicinity of 31st Avenue and Elliot Road. Please report any sightings to the Phoenix Police Department or 911 immediately.
The takeaway
Public awareness and quick reporting are the most effective tools in the recovery of missing elderly individuals. Residents in the Phoenix area should stay alert for the specific physical descriptors released by authorities.
Further reading
For more information on state safety procedures, visit the Emergency Response section.
