Introduction

Peel Regional Police are asking for the public’s help in locating a 70-year-old woman who went missing in Brampton on Monday afternoon. The woman, identified only as Donna, was last seen on December 8 in a residential neighbourhood in the city’s northwestern area. As temperatures continue to drop and concern for her wellbeing grows, police are intensifying their search efforts and urging residents to remain alert for any signs of the missing senior.

The case has prompted widespread attention across the community, especially as police continue to stress the importance of public assistance in missing-person investigations involving vulnerable adults.

Details of the Last Known Sighting

Seen Near Northwood Drive and Welbeck Drive

According to Peel Regional Police, Donna was last spotted around 3:45 p.m. on Monday near the intersection of Northwood Drive and Welbeck Drive, a quiet residential zone in Brampton dotted with townhomes, parks, and walking paths.

The circumstances surrounding her disappearance have not yet been disclosed. Police have not said whether she was walking alone, if anyone saw her speak to anyone, or if her disappearance appears voluntary or concerning. However, given her age, investigators are treating the case as time-sensitive.

Description Provided by Police

Officers have released a detailed physical description to assist the public in identifying Donna. She is described as:

• Age: 70

• Height: 5’6” (five feet six inches)

• Build: Medium

• Hair: Shoulder-length, frizzy brown and grey hair

Her clothing at the time she was last seen may help the public recognize her more easily. According to police, she was wearing:

• A furry brown vest

• A tan-coloured inner sweater

• Light brown pants

• Brown boots

• A distinctive pink scarf with heart-shaped patterns

This layered, colourful clothing is easily noticeable and could help residents recall seeing her in the neighbourhood.

Police Response and Search Efforts

Officers Conducting Localized Search

Shortly after the missing-person report was filed, Peel police deployed officers to conduct a thorough search of the area where Donna was last seen. Investigators are canvassing homes, reviewing outdoor security footage, and checking walkways and trail paths as part of their standard procedure for missing seniors who may become disoriented or confused.

Given that the area includes parks, side streets, and multiple access points for pedestrians, officers are moving methodically from one street to the next.

Why Time Is Critical in Missing Senior Cases

Missing-person cases involving older adults are often considered urgent, especially when the individual may require medication, have mobility challenges, or face cognitive difficulties such as early-stage memory loss. Police have not specified whether any of these factors apply to Donna, but their prompt appeal to the public indicates a heightened level of concern.

In winter months, exposure to cold can quickly become dangerous, even during daylight. Overnight temperatures have been dropping significantly, increasing the urgency of locating Donna as soon as possible.

Community Involvement in the Search

Residents Encouraged to Check Cameras and Yards

Peel police are urging residents in the Northwood Drive and Welbeck Drive area—and surrounding neighbourhoods—to review surveillance videos from doorbell cameras, home security systems, and dashcams. Many missing seniors are located because of a resident spotting them on footage heading in a specific direction.

Officers also recommend that residents:

• Check backyards, sheds, garages, and side pathways

• Alert police if they notice someone matching Donna’s description wandering or appearing lost

• Call immediately rather than attempt to approach or bring the person home themselves

Even a small detail—such as seeing her walking down a street or sitting on a bench—can significantly narrow the search area.

Social Media Boosting Visibility

The missing-person alert has been widely shared across local social media groups, neighbourhood forums, and community WhatsApp chats. In many cases, online visibility plays a crucial role in reuniting families with missing loved ones. Community members have been sharing photos and clothing descriptions to help widen the search beyond the immediate area.

Police have thanked residents for their cooperation but have emphasised that official information should always come directly from Peel Regional Police channels to avoid misinformation.

What We Know — and What Remains Unclear

Unanswered Questions About the Disappearance

At this stage, police have not released information regarding:

• Whether Donna has any medical conditions

• If she is familiar with the area or could navigate on her own

• How long she was missing before the report was filed

• If she had any scheduled appointments or activities earlier in the day

• Whether police believe she may have used public transit or accepted a ride

Investigators typically share additional details as the search progresses, especially if new information suggests Donna may have travelled outside the immediate neighbourhood.

Weather Conditions Could Impact Search

Monday afternoon was mild, but temperature drops in the evening may pose risks for someone outdoors without proper winter layers. While Donna was wearing warm clothing—including boots and a layered vest—prolonged exposure remains a concern, especially overnight.

Police usually coordinate with local emergency services, search teams, and community volunteers when weather increases urgency in a missing-person case.

Why Public Assistance Is Essential

Most Missing Seniors Are Found Thanks to Community Tips

Statistics in Canada show that a large percentage of missing seniors are located because of tips from the public rather than police patrols alone. Seniors who walk away from home or wander often follow unpredictable paths, sometimes entering parks, secluded areas, or unfamiliar streets.

Public awareness increases the chances of a quick and safe recovery dramatically.

How the Public Can Help

Peel police encourage anyone who sees a woman matching Donna’s description to:

• Call Peel Regional Police immediately

• Avoid delay even if unsure

• Provide the exact time and location of the sighting

• Note the direction she was traveling

Residents should avoid making assumptions that someone else has already called. Multiple reports help investigators establish movement patterns.

Conclusion

Peel Regional Police are continuing their urgent search for Donna, a missing 70-year-old woman last seen on Monday afternoon near Northwood Drive and Welbeck Drive in Brampton. With concerns increasing for her safety, officers are appealing to the public to remain vigilant and report any possible sightings.

Donna’s detailed physical description and clothing have been shared widely, and investigators are urging residents to check their cameras, yards, and surroundings. As the search continues, the community’s cooperation may be critical in bringing her home safely.