75-year-old Man Missing in Sacramento

by Lawrence Watanabe

Nearly three months after a Sacramento community member was reported missing, his family continues to work with authorities to find him. 

Somboun Sayasane, 75, was last seen outside of his home in the Lemon Hill neighborhood of Sacramento on December 26. He has suffered from previous “severe” medical issues, some of which have required hospitalization, according to posts by the Sacramento Sheriff’s Office on social media. Prescribed medication was found in his home, raising concerns regarding his health and well-being, said his family in a press statement.

Sayasane had a consistent daily routine, says his nephew, Jeffrey Sayasane, who described the days leading to his disappearance as “normal.”

“We spoke to him on the morning of Christmas,” he said. “I saw him physically, visited him on Thanksgiving… There were no signs of [unusual behaviors].”

He also noted that while it was not unusual for Sayasane to leave without notice, the circumstances around his initial disappearance were abnormal. He had failed to find care for his pets, and had made plans to go out on New Year’s Eve, and had boasted about a new outfit he was going to wear. Additionally, he had scheduled events for the day he disappeared.

“On [December 26], Somboun was supposed to have a doctor’s appointment,” said Sombay Sayasane, his sister. “My sister-in-law was supposed to take him, but when she arrived to pick him up, he wasn’t there. That’s how we found out.” 

“Somboun is a beloved uncle,” his family said in their statement. “He is deeply missed by his family and friends. It is crucial that we find him to ensure his safety and well-being. We urge anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward. His family loves him and needs closure.”

Sayasane is described to be 5’5”, weighing between about 165 lb, according to his missing person’s report. He has a birthmark over his left eyelid, and wears glasses. He is also missing his teeth, according to the California Office of the Attorney General, and his family noted that dentures were also found in his home. Last seen wearing black and gray house clothes with sandals and a multicolored bracelet on his left wrist, he might also respond to “Sam,” a nickname his friends called him.

Sayasane’s family is offering a $20,000 reward to anyone with information that could lead to his safe return.

“Our greatest concern is for Somboun’s safety,” said his niece, Amanda Xayasane. “We’re worried sick. We just want him home. Every moment that passes is agonizing. We miss him dearly… Even the smallest detail could be the key to bringing him home.”

Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact the Sacramento Sheriff’s Office at (916) 874-5115, case no. 24-409727.