Missing: Donald Butterfield, 63, Last Seen August 5 in Cohoes, NY

A Community Rallies as Search Continues for Local Resident

Donald Butterfield, a 63-year-old Cohoes resident, vanished without a trace on August 5, sparking an urgent community-wide search effort. The Cohoes Police Department issued a public appeal for information as concerned residents and law enforcement work together to bring him home safely. This case highlights the critical importance of community vigilance and rapid response when our neighbors go missing.

When someone disappears from our community, it affects us all. The search for Donald Butterfield represents more than just a missing person case—it’s a reminder of how quickly life can change and how essential our collective watchfulness becomes.

What We Know About Donald Butterfield’s Disappearance

The Basic Facts

The Cohoes Police Department released key identifying information to help the public assist in the search:

• Age: 63 years old
• Height: 5 feet, 8 inches tall
• Weight: Approximately 250 pounds
• Last Seen: August 5, 2025
• Location: Cohoes, New York area

Official Police Response

The Cohoes Police Department announced the search on Monday, demonstrating their commitment to finding community members who go missing. Their proactive approach shows how local law enforcement prioritizes resident safety.

“Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is asked to call Cohoes Police at (518)237-5333,” according to the official department statement.

This direct appeal emphasizes the urgency of the situation and provides a clear action step for concerned citizens.

Why Missing Person Cases Matter to Our Communities

The Human Impact

Every missing person case represents a family in crisis, friends worried sick, and a community that loses a piece of itself. Donald Butterfield isn’t just a statistic—he’s someone’s father, friend, or neighbor whose absence creates ripples of concern throughout Cohoes.

Missing person cases affect entire communities because they:

• Threaten our sense of safety and security
• Mobilize collective care and concern
• Highlight the importance of looking out for each other
• Demonstrate how quickly circumstances can change

The Power of Community Response

When residents go missing, communities often become the most powerful search tool available. Neighbors know the area, recognize faces, and notice when something seems out of place.

Local residents can help by:

• Staying alert for anyone matching Donald’s description
• Checking their own property, including outbuildings or secluded areas
• Sharing official information through social media responsibly
• Contacting police immediately with any relevant information

How You Can Help Find Donald Butterfield

Immediate Actions You Can Take

1. Stay Vigilant
Keep Donald Butterfield’s description in mind during your daily activities. Look for a 63-year-old man, 5’8″ tall, weighing around 250 pounds.

2. Check Your Property
Search any outbuildings, sheds, or areas on your property where someone might seek shelter or become disoriented.

3. Share Responsibly
Share official information from law enforcement rather than unverified rumors or speculation.

4. Contact Police Directly
If you have any information—no matter how small—call the Cohoes Police Department at (518)237-5333 immediately.

What NOT to Do

• Don’t approach anyone you suspect might be Donald—call police instead
• Don’t share unverified information that could hamper the search
• Don’t conduct independent searches in dangerous areas without professional guidance

Understanding Missing Person Statistics in New York

The Broader Context

Missing person cases happen more frequently than many people realize. Understanding the scope helps communities prepare and respond effectively.

Key facts about missing persons:

• Most missing adults are found within 72 hours
• Community involvement significantly increases successful outcomes
• Quick reporting and response time are critical factors
• Local knowledge often provides breakthrough information

Why Rapid Response Matters

The first hours and days after someone goes missing are crucial. That’s why the Cohoes Police Department acted quickly to alert the public and why community members should respond immediately with any relevant information.

Supporting Families During Missing Person Cases

The Emotional Toll

While we focus on finding Donald Butterfield, we must remember that his family and friends are experiencing unimaginable stress and worry. Missing person cases create emotional trauma that extends far beyond the individual who disappeared.

How Communities Can Support

• Respect family privacy while offering appropriate support
• Avoid speculation about circumstances or causes
• Focus on constructive help rather than sensationalizing the situation
• Maintain hope while being realistic about challenges

The Role of Local Law Enforcement

Professional Search Efforts

The Cohoes Police Department’s announcement demonstrates professional law enforcement response to missing person cases. Their systematic approach includes:

• Gathering and verifying initial information
• Coordinating search efforts with appropriate agencies
• Managing public information and appeals
• Following up on tips and leads from the community

Community-Police Partnership

Successful missing person searches often depend on strong partnerships between law enforcement and community members. The police provide professional expertise and resources, while residents contribute local knowledge and additional eyes and ears.

Moving Forward: What Happens Next

Ongoing Search Efforts

The search for Donald Butterfield continues as police follow leads and investigate his disappearance. Community members should remain alert and ready to assist as needed.

Staying Informed

Residents should monitor official channels for updates from the Cohoes Police Department. Avoid relying on social media speculation or unverified sources.

Conclusion: Our Collective Responsibility

The disappearance of Donald Butterfield reminds us that community safety depends on all of us working together. When our neighbors go missing, we have both an opportunity and an obligation to help bring them home.

Every missing person case is urgent. Every piece of information matters. Every community member who stays alert and cares about their neighbors contributes to a safer, more connected place to live.

Take Action Today:

• Keep Donald Butterfield’s description in mind: 63 years old, 5’8″, approximately 250 pounds
• Call Cohoes Police at (518)237-5333 with any information
• Share this information with friends, family, and neighbors
• Stay vigilant in your daily activities

Together, we can help bring Donald Butterfield home safely. Our community’s strength lies in how we care for each other, especially during difficult times like these.

Thank you for being part of the solution. Your awareness and action could make the difference in reuniting Donald with his loved ones. Please share this story and stay alert—someone you know might have the information that brings him home.