Crime & Safety

NMPD: Missing Borough Resident Found

Man was admitted to NYC hospital as a John Doe

The NMPD announced that borough resident Joseph Portizo, who had been reported missing on Friday, was located in Lutheran Medical Center in Brooklyn on Wednesday.

Police said they were contacted by a doctor at the medical center around 11 a.m. Wednesday. He remains in the hospital for treatment. 

"The New Milford Police Dept. appreciates the assistance provided to us by the public and news media with regard to this case," said NMPD Chief Frank Papapietro.

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Police said Portizo was admitted as a John Doe patient on Friday after an FDNY EMS crew "observed him wandering the streets of Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, suffering from an undisclosed medical condition."

Due to the nature of his condition, the NYPD could not positively identify Portizo until today. NYPD officers from the 72nd Precinct responded to the medical center and confirmed the identification. 

Find out what's happening in New Milfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Portizo’s vehicle was located by police officers in the 88th Precinct along with his wallet, keys and cell phone on Friday, according to police reports.

"He apparently drove himself to Brooklyn and became lost," said police.  "It is not known why he drove to NYC at this time."

The NMPD said they have now officially closed their investigation.


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