Clayton County Authorities Searching for Missing 19-Year-Old Man with Possible Mental Health Concerns
CLAYTON COUNTY, Ga. (June 12, 2025) – Authorities in Clayton County are urgently seeking the public’s help in locating Eric Pitts, a 19-year-old man who went missing after leaving Southern Regional Hospital in Riverdale on Wednesday. Police say Pitts may be suffering from a mental health disorder and could be in need of immediate care.
According to Clayton County Police, officers were dispatched to Southern Regional Medical Center after hospital staff reported a missing patient. Pitts had been brought to the hospital by Clayton State University’s Police Department for a mental health evaluation, but left the premises without permission shortly after being dropped off.
A Concerning Disappearance
The circumstances of Eric Pitts’ disappearance have raised alarms due to his possible mental health condition. Authorities have emphasized that the young man could be disoriented or in distress, and his safety is their top priority.
Hospital personnel said Pitts was not admitted or officially checked into care before he exited the facility. It is not clear how he managed to leave or in what direction he went, but surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts are being reviewed in an effort to trace his steps.
Clayton County Police are asking residents in the Riverdale area and surrounding neighborhoods to remain alert and report any possible sightings. He was last seen wearing casual clothing, though further description of his attire has not been publicly released.
Community Asked to Assist
“Time is of the essence in situations like this,” said a spokesperson for the Clayton County Police Department. “Eric Pitts may be confused or overwhelmed. If anyone sees him or thinks they’ve seen him, we urge them to contact us immediately. We want to bring him to safety and get him the help he needs.”
Mental health advocates are also echoing the importance of community involvement in missing persons cases involving mental illness, pointing out that compassion and prompt reporting can make a crucial difference.
Police have distributed photos of Pitts through local news outlets and on social media to broaden the search. Flyers are also being shared in public spaces including convenience stores, bus stops, and the Clayton State University campus.
About Eric Pitts
Little background information has been shared about Eric Pitts, but authorities confirmed that he is affiliated with Clayton State University, which is located just a few miles from Southern Regional Hospital. School officials have not commented publicly but are believed to be cooperating fully with the investigation.
Pitts’ family, who have been notified of the situation, are reportedly devastated and desperate for answers. They are asking for privacy during this difficult time but have expressed deep concern for Eric’s well-being.
How You Can Help
Anyone who has information about Eric Pitts’ whereabouts is urged to call the Clayton County Police Department at (770) 477-3747 or dial 911 in the event of an emergency or active sighting.
The police are also encouraging residents to share official alerts and updates via social media in hopes that the information reaches as wide an audience as possible.
As the search intensifies, the community is rallying behind the effort to bring Eric Pitts home safely. Law enforcement and healthcare professionals alike are hopeful that with public cooperation and vigilance, he can be located quickly and given the care he needs.
Updates will be provided as the situation develops.