Police, Family in Alabama Continue Search for Missing 72-Year-Old Kenyan Man

Authorities are continuing their search for Reuben Barua Waithaka, a 72-year-old Kenyan national who disappeared in Calera more than two weeks ago. 

Waithaka, who arrived in the United States to attend a family graduation celebration, was last seen on May 15, 2025, near Merion Drive at approximately 11:00 a.m. The Calera Police Department are leading the ongoing investigation, deploying significant resources to locate him. Waithaka is described as a black male, approximately five feet tall, weighing around 165 pounds. When last seen, he was wearing khaki trousers and a plaid button-down shirt. His disappearance has prompted widespread concern within the community, and his family are anxious for his safe return.

Chief David Hyche of the Calera Police Department addressed the media, stating, "We're still working on it. We're not going to give up on him." He highlighted the unusual circumstances of the case, noting, "This man came to see his grandson graduate and then he wandered off, got a couple rides, and we don't know where he is now. We really hope and pray he turns up and maybe someone else gave him a ride."

The investigation has involved extensive search efforts, including the use of helicopters, drones, and canine units. Despite these efforts, authorities have yet to uncover substantial leads within the immediate search area. One of the key challenges in the search is the possibility that Waithaka may be disoriented. Family members have indicated that he may have believed he was still in Kenya. 

Chief Hyche acknowledged these concerns, adding that Waithaka had recently suffered a fall and now walks with a limp. While a formal medical diagnosis has not been confirmed, these factors have added complexity to the search. Language barriers and the absence of official documentation are also hindering the investigation. Waithaka speaks very little English and does not have a passport, which could limit his ability to seek help or identify himself. 

Authorities have not ruled out the possibility that he accepted a lift from a passing motorist and travelled beyond the immediate Calera area. Despite these challenges, the Calera Police Department has been rigorous in its efforts. Extensive on-ground searches, including the use of tracker and cadaver dogs across wooded regions, have been conducted. So far, these searches have not indicated any signs of foul play.

"We've used virtually every dog team in this part of Alabama," Chief Hyche reported, "and I'm really glad we haven't found anything with those dogs, so we're really hopeful now that someone picked him up and that he is somewhere."

The police are also coordinating with national agencies, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), hospitals, and airports, to ensure that any trace of Waithaka is promptly identified. These measures demonstrate the gravity with which law enforcement are treating the situation. However, the intensity of the search is beginning to strain departmental resources. 

Chief Hyche noted, "Our dispatchers are overwhelmed. We have three detectives that have been working on this, while covering our other caseload as well. Some of these people work several days straight without any time off."

He appealed to the public for vigilance and urged anyone with credible information to come forward. At the same time, he asked for patience, stressing that non-urgent calls and inquiries only add to the strain on already stretched resources.

The Calera Police Department are committed to maintaining transparency while balancing the need for operational efficiency. Chief Hyche explained that updates are being shared as significant developments arise, but the department are refraining from issuing bulletins based on unsubstantiated leads, as this would not aid the investigation or serve the public interest.
 

"It's a wonderful family and a very tragic story," Chief Hyche stated, emphasising the ongoing collaboration with Waithaka's relatives. The Calera Police Department continues to urge anyone with information to contact them at (205) 668-3505 or to dial 911. The search for Reuben Barua Waithaka continues, with authorities determined to exhaust all possible avenues until he is located and reunited with his family.