Sparks Police Seek Help Locating Missing Man
Police are asking the public for information on 83-year-old Willis "Bill" Cook, who was last seen in Sparks.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Accidents
The Sparks Police Department is requesting public assistance in locating Willis "Bill" Cook, 83, who left his residence on the 2000 block of Sycamore Glen Drive around 1:30 p.m. on Nov. 3. Officers responded to a missing person report around 3 p.m. on Nov. 4.
Why it matters
Cook's age and the time elapsed since he was last seen make prompt public tips important for his safety and well-being. Residents in Sparks who see a man matching his description are asked to contact police.
The Sparks Police Department has opened case number 26-8029 and is actively seeking information from the public. No charges or further developments have been reported as of the report.
The players
Sparks Police Department
The municipal law enforcement agency serving the city of Sparks, Nevada, responsible for investigating the disappearance and coordinating the public appeal.
Willis "Bill" Cook
The 83-year-old man reported missing after leaving his Sparks residence, whose whereabouts police are working to determine.
The details
Willis "Bill" Cook left his residence on the 2000 block of Sycamore Glen Drive around 1:30 p.m. on Nov. 3. He was last seen wearing a green sweater and blue jeans, and police are asking anyone with information to call 775-353-2231.
Timeline
Nov. 3, around 1:30 p.m.: Willis Cook leaves his residence on Sycamore Glen Drive.
Nov. 4, around 3 p.m.: Sparks Police respond to a missing person report.
Legal Context
Missing-person searches for older adults in Nevada are commonly coordinated through public appeals and, where eligible, Silver Alert protocols that prioritize at-risk seniors. This case shows how local police rely on community tips to locate vulnerable residents quickly.
Sparks residents who see a man matching Willis Cook's description, a 5'11" 83-year-old wearing a green sweater and blue jeans, are asked to call the Sparks Police Department at 775-353-2231. Prompt tips help police confirm his safety.
The takeaway
If you see an older adult who appears lost or disoriented, note their description and location and report it to police promptly. Quick tips from neighbors often make the difference in missing-person cases.
Further reading
Find more local reporting in the Accidents section for Sparks.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Reno News.
