CHP Officers Reunite Man with Dementia with Family After Finding Him on Highway 101 in Santa Barbara

Officers purchase meal for disoriented man before safely transporting him home

A routine patrol turned into an act of compassion early Wednesday morning when California Highway Patrol officers discovered a disoriented man walking along the shoulder of Highway 101 and went above and beyond to ensure he made it home safely.

On July 23, 2026, at approximately 3:35 a.m., Officer Skaufel and Officer De Mara were traveling northbound on US-101 south of Patterson Avenue when they observed a male pedestrian walking along the right shoulder against the flow of traffic—a dangerous situation on the busy highway.

Officers Recognize Signs of Dementia

With the assistance of another CHP unit, the officers safely contacted the pedestrian. During their conversation with the man, they noticed he was displaying signs and symptoms consistent with dementia. He was unable to remember where he lived, putting officers in a difficult position to help him get home…

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