Missing Selma Man Found Safe, Reunited With Family

SELMA – A missing 75-year-old Selma man has been found safe and reunited with his family following an extensive search involving numerous law enforcement and emergency response agencies.

Selma Police Chief Justin Vause announced today (Wednesday), that David Graham had been located safely. Graham was being evaluated at a hospital as a precaution.

Graham was located earlier today at the Medical Mall in Smithfield after a staff member recognized him as the missing man and called 911.

Graham was reported missing Tuesday after he was last seen around 5:00 a.m. walking westbound on Griswold Street in Selma. Authorities had expressed concern for his safety because of a possible cognitive impairment.

The disappearance prompted a search involving local police, fire and emergency medical personnel, along with assistance from state and neighboring law enforcement agencies.

Among those assisting were the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, North Carolina Emergency Management, Johnston County Emergency Management, bloodhound units from the Harnett County Sheriff’s Office and Cary Police Department, Smithfield Police Department, Johnston County Communications, Selma Fire Department and Johnston County EMS.

Chief Vause thanked the agencies, Selma police officers and investigators, and community members who provided information, shared social media posts and offered assistance during the search.

“Today is a reminder that we are stronger when we stand together,” Vause said. “As law enforcement officers, we take an oath to serve and protect, but that responsibility extends beyond the badge. It is about caring for people, looking out for our neighbors, and never giving up when someone needs help.”

“I am incredibly proud of our officers and grateful for every agency, individual, and community member who stepped up to help. Most importantly, I am thankful that Mr. Graham is home safely with his family. That is what matters most.”