A police drone played a key role in safely locating a missing endangered man in Buckingham Township earlier this month, according to Warrington Township Police Department.
Around 9:40 p.m. on Feb. 2, Buckingham Township Police Department requested aerial assistance in the search for a man suffering from dementia.
Warrington Officer Nate Coia responded and launched a department drone, quickly spotting the missing individual from the air and guiding officers on the ground to his location. Authorities said the man was safely recovered and reunited with his family.
Police said the incident underscores the value of Warrington’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems Division, launched in 2025 and led by Lt. Robert Meditz.
The unit includes six FAA-certified drone operators and works in partnership with Warrington Fire Service, which also operates its own drone program.
In addition to search-and-rescue missions, the drone team provides aerial support during emergency incidents, law enforcement operations, and large community events.
