The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) is urgently asking for the public’s assistance in locating Chung Cho, an 83-year-old Vietnamese woman who went missing on the evening of Wednesday, June 17, 2026.
Authorities state that Ms. Cho was last seen at approximately 8:00 PM at the Santa Monica Place Mall, located near the intersection of Broadway and Colorado Avenue in Santa Monica, California.
Physical Description and Last Known Visuals
Search teams are focusing on the downtown Santa Monica commercial corridors and transit hubs. Community members are encouraged to keep a close eye out for anyone matching her description:
Missing Person Vital Statistics: Chung Cho
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Age : 83 years old
Ethnicity : Vietnamese
Height : 5 feet, 1 inch (5'1")
Weight : Approximately 120 pounds
Last Seen Clothing : A bright pink hooded jacket and matching pink pants
Current Status : Believed to be traveling on foot
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Because she was wearing a distinctive all-pink outfit (hooded jacket and pants), investigators hope she will stand out to pedestrians, business employees, or rideshare drivers who were operating in the area Wednesday night.
Search Areas and Transit Points
Ms. Cho is believed to be entirely on foot. Due to her proximity to the Santa Monica Place Mall, police are actively checking nearby public areas, including:
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The Third Street Promenade
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The Santa Monica Pier and beach boardwalks
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The Metro E Line (Expo) Downtown Santa Monica Station
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Local bus stops and regional transit shelters
Given her age, there is deep concern for her well-being, especially as temperatures drop overnight.
Immediate Action Steps for the Public
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[Check Cameras] ---> Homeowners/businesses near 4th St & Broadway should check footage.
[Inspect Spaces] ---> Check commercial alcoves, parking structures, & retail corridors.
[Report Instantly] ---> If spotted, do not lose sight of her; call emergency services immediately.
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How to Help
Law enforcement officials urge anyone who lives in, works in, or was visiting downtown Santa Monica on Wednesday evening to review any personal dashcam or security footage.
CRITICAL ALERT: If you see anyone matching Chung Cho’s description, or if you have any information regarding her current whereabouts, please do not hesitate. Call 9-1-1 immediately to route the dispatch directly to local emergency services.