ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — A late-night alert that startled many New Mexico residents this week was part of a newly implemented emergency notification system for missing adults. The alert, issued by New Mexico State Police (NMSP), was not an Amber Alert or weather warning—but a Silver Alert for a missing 77-year-old man.
The system, which functions similarly to Amber Alerts, is now required under state law to notify the public via cell phones when an adult goes missing. Until recently, these alerts were only sent through TV, radio, and social media. The new technology now allows NMSP to send them directly to mobile devices.
Some residents expressed confusion and frustration over the timing and wording of the alert, which was categorized as an “extreme emergency.” NMSP acknowledged the concerns and said they are working with the Department of Homeland Security to improve how the alerts are classified and communicated.
Despite the disruption, the alert played a critical role. The missing man, Jose Lujan, was later found deceased after a truck driver who received the alert spotted his vehicle.
NMSP says the system will also be used for Turquoise Alerts, which notify the public about missing Indigenous persons. Officials say they typically issue around 50 Silver Alerts per year, but that number could increase with the new system in place.
