Los Angeles: On March 16, 2002 at 9:00 a.m., Maria Obando reported that Nicolasa Figuracion, an elderly woman who suffers from Alzheimer's disease, was missing. Mrs. Obando had been caring for Mrs. Figuracion.

Mrs. Figuracion is described as a female Filipino, 97 years of age, with gray hair, brown eyes, 5feet, 2 inches tall, weighs 112 pounds. She was last seen at 9:00 p.m., on March 15, 2002, at Mrs. Obando's residence, located at 1220 South Normandie Avenue. Mrs. Obando stated she found the front door open at approximately 7:30 a.m., on March 16, 2002, and Mrs. Figuracion missing. Mrs. Obando searched the area and, failing to find Mrs. Figuracion, called the police who immediately initiated a Critical Missing Person Investigation.

Mrs. Obando is available for media interviews and can be reached at 323-735-4318. Photos of the missing person can also be obtained by calling that number.

Anyone with information regarding Mrs. Figuracion's whereabouts is urged to contact Wilshire Community Police Station watch commander at 213-485-4024, or at the 24-hour toll free Detective Information Desk at 1-800-LAWFULL.

This press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Eduardo Funes, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.