Concern grows for missing Tuskegee woman

TUSKEGEE, AL (WSFA) - A plea for help is being issued in the search for a missing Tuskegee woman. Her family members and authorities are turning to the public in their search for clues in her disappearance.

Jimmy Ware and his wife, Willie Dean, are worried. They have not seen his sister, Lorene, in weeks and now her photo is on flyers and she's at the center of a missing person investigation.

"We are very much concerned about this matter," Jimmy Ware said.

Lorene Ware, 60, is known by many in Tuskegee as "Pokie." She was last seen in the city on May 15th. Tuskegee Police said on Wednesday that they are following up on leads that Lorene may have been spotted in the Montgomery area. The Montgomery Police Department has been contacted and are assisting in the search efforts.

"It's beginning to sink in that something really is wrong," Willie Dean said. "It makes me wonder what did happen or could have happened or has happened. It's beginning to put thoughts in my mind."

Ware is known by many in the community and is often spotted out walking in the downtown area. News of her disappearance has spread across town.

"I hope she's ok. I really do," said Hallen Bledsoe, who says she typically sees Lorene Ware nearly every other day and was surprised to learn that she's vanished.

"I can't understand how and why things like this could happen and by knowing her the way that a lot of people in this community know her, they should really want to reach out and help her because she has always made them laugh and smile," Jimmy Ware added.

At the Tuskegee Police Department, Lorene Ware's picture is on the front door to help get the word out about her case. Officials say it's too early to tell if foul play could be involved. Ware was reported missing by her family on Sunday, May 31st.

As the search continues, her relatives hope she's found safe and sound.

"We have no idea as to where she is but we would certainly love to find her and if you can, please be on the lookout," Willie Dean Ware said. "We hope she's alright. Please, please help us find her."

"We are all concerned. It has been several weeks now and still her family has not heard from her, does not know where she is and therefore, we're making a community wide appeal. If you know of anything or have any idea where she is, please call the Tuskegee Police Department," added Tuskegee Mayor Johnny Ford.

Lorene Ware is described as being five foot and two inches, weighing approximately 130 pounds.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Tuskegee Police Department at 334-727-0200 or the Macon County Sheriff's Department 334-727-2500.

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