Missing Persons Unit

The 'Why' and 'How'

“After extensive involvement in missing person cases over the years and seeing the overload of cases many of the agencies work with, TEXSAR hopes to provide some relief where possible and closure to the families of the missing.” says TEXSAR CEO, Justin McInnis. Over 50% of TEXSAR deployments since 2013 have been missing persons cases. TEXSAR will use its vast experience, knowledge of lost persons, technological resources and the experience of Todd Snyder and his extensive network of law enforcement contacts to embark on this journey.

TEXANS HELPING TEXANS

TEXSAR does not self deploy and only works at the request of law enforcement and emergency responders. TEXSAR will manage the MPU in a similar fashion working directly with law enforcement agencies. TEXSAR aims to continue their reputation of professionalism and excellence as they embark on this journey. As evidence of this work, in January of this year, TEXSAR was recognized by the Governor’s Office and the Onestar foundation as the recipient of the Governor’s Volunteer Award for Excellence in Disaster Volunteerism.

Missing Persons Unit - FAQ

Get to know TEXSAR and the MPU

Who is the Director of the MPU?

The TEXSAR Missing Persons Unit is led by retired Texas Ranger, Todd Snyder. Todd has been in law enforcement for almost 30 years and has held many different positions with the Texas Department of Public Safety to include: Trooper, Texas Ranger, Texas Ranger Sergeant/Lieutenant/Captain/Major/Assistant Chief and he finally retired as the Regional Director of the Central Texas Region. Snyder shared, “I understand the trust that has been placed in me and will work with a forward purpose to further the mission of TEXSAR and serve the communities of this great state. I am honored to be a part of an organization that gives selflessly with investment to never let victims, or their families forget they are valued and supported!” McInnis added, “We are excited about Todd’s joining our team and leading the newly formed Missing Persons Unit, and quite confident in Todd in utilizing his experience to begin this meaningful work and assist in the continuation of our core mission of Texans Helping Texans”.

How do I contact TEXSAR's MPU?

To connect with the TEXSAR Missing Persons Unit, please contact MPU@texsar.org.

I am Law Enforcement - How do I Request TEXSAR?

How to Request TEXSAR

TEXSAR does not self deploy. TEXSAR must receive a call from a local agency/authority in order to deploy our resources.

Call the TEXSAR activation line: 512-994-4SAR

The TEXSAR activation line is monitored 24/7.

TEXSAR will request information from the requesting agency.

The information needed includes type of incident, mission needs (assets and personnel required), location of staging area, and point of contact.

TEXSAR works directly with the requesting agency.

Together, we will establish TEXSAR’s response plan and mission role.

TEXSAR deploys.

TEXSAR operates in accordance with NIMS (National Incident Management System) and reports directly to the requesting agency’s Incident Commander.

What do I do when my loved one goes missing?

If you need to report a lost or missing person, please contact 9-1-1. Your local Sheriff’s Department is a great resource when someone goes missing. For a list of all Texas County Sheriff’s Departments, click here. There is NO 24-hour waiting period to report a missing person.

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC):
Missing Child Emergency Response Quick Reference Guide for Families

How much do your services cost?

TEXSAR services are free to requesting agencies. TEXSAR never charges for our services. We were established to be a free resource for requesting agencies to utilize in times of crisis and disaster.

How is TEXSAR funded?

TEXSAR raises funds through corporate and private donors.

Help Support our Mission Today!

Emergency Activation (Agencies Only)