Search continues for missing Cape Coral grandfather
The Cape Coral police are asking for the public’s help in locating a missing, possibly endangered, man and his 24-year-old grandson.
James Arthur, 80, was last seen Thursday morning leaving the home he shares with his grandson, Garrett Kern, at 3519 S.W. 29th Ave. He was to drive Kern to a probation appointment that day, but they never showed.
According to police, Kern was seen later Thursday afternoon at BA Hustlers Pool Hall on Santa Barbara Boulevard South. He was driving his grandfather’s vehicle – a 2010 Volvo S80 sedan – but Arthur was not present with him.
The Volvo bears the Florida tag A057QX.
Kern reportedly made statements to people present at the pool hall on Thursday that gave rise to concern for the welfare of his grandfather.
On Friday, the Cape police announced that someone whom they believe to be Kern attempted to use one of Arthur’s credit cards at 5 a.m. that morning at a gas station in Gainesville. The card – used to buy gas – was declined.
Police believe Kern is out of money somewhere in the Gainesville area.
As of Friday evening, Arthur had not been seen and had not attempted to contact his family. Cape detectives are broadening their focus to include the Gainesville area in their search for Arthur and Kern, according to officials.
Anyone with information can contact the Cape Coral Police Department at 574-3223, or submit a tip by texting “CCPD” plus the message to CRIMES or by visiting: www.capecops.com. Tipsters can also contact Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers at (800) 780-TIPS (8477) and be eligible for a cash reward.