In the spring of 2025, a 58-year-old man named Ishmel Evans disappeared from Tulsa, Oklahoma, sparking concern among his family and community. On May 11, 2025, Evans was taken by police to Grand Mental Health after an incident where he had become combative while drinking. The following day, May 12, 2025, he was discharged from the facility. Tragically, his guardian was not notified of his release, and he has not been seen or heard from since that day. This lack of communication was a critical failure, as Evans suffers from Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, a serious condition that presents with symptoms similar to dementia. His family, deeply worried for his safety due to his medical condition which can cause disorientation, promptly reported him missing to the Tulsa Police Department.
Ishmel Evans is described as a Black male with salt and pepper hair and hazel eyes. At the time of his disappearance, he stood 5'9' tall and weighed approximately 180 pounds.
His medical condition, Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, is a significant concern as it is a progressive and potentially life-threatening illness if left untreated. The very nature of this syndrome means that Evans could easily become confused and may not be aware of his surroundings or how to seek help. This vulnerability underscores the urgency and seriousness of the search for him. The fact that he was released from a mental health facility without proper notification to his guardian raises serious questions and adds a layer of complexity to his case.
The disappearance of Ishmel Evans remains an active and concerning case. His family is left with the anguish of not knowing his whereabouts or his condition. Law enforcement continues to investigate, but time is a critical factor given his medical needs. The case highlights the importance of proper discharge protocols for vulnerable individuals and the devastating consequences that can occur when these procedures are not followed. The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any potential sightings or information that could lead to his safe return. The search for Ishmel Evans is not just a missing person case; it is a race against time to find a man who is ill, disoriented, and in desperate need of care.Last Seen: May 12, 2025
