The Metropolitan Police Department has reclassified the disappearance of Antoinette Forbes, 53, as a critically missing person, signaling heightened concern for her safety after she vanished from her Washington, D.C., home nearly a week ago without her phones, wallet, car, or dog.
Police confirmed Forbes was last seen in person Friday, September 4, around 3 p.m. at the 3200 block of Nebraska Avenue NW, according to a missing-person poster released by authorities. The case was upgraded to a critical missing person investigation within 24 hours, a classification reserved for individuals believed to be in danger or facing life-threatening circumstances.
Forbes’ family and friends report that her two phones, wallet, laptop, car, and dog were left behind at her home, and the front door was unlocked. Her sister, Aileen Forbes, described the circumstances as deeply alarming and expressed disbelief that she would leave voluntarily.
Family’s Account: No Sign of Voluntary Departure
Aileen Forbes told reporters that her sister, a single mother of a young boy, had no history of disappearing without notice. The family’s concerns deepened after repeated attempts to contact her went unanswered. Forbes’ friend, Elizabeth Northrup, stated that law enforcement and friends had checked all local hospitals, and there was no evidence Forbes had traveled by air or otherwise left the area.
“She did not walk out of that house and go voluntarily,” Northrup said. “Something happened.”
The family’s friend, Margarita, who has a key to Forbes’ home, entered the residence and immediately noticed troubling signs, though specific details were not disclosed in the reports.
Police Investigation: Active Crime Scene Status
The Metropolitan Police Department has not provided further details about the investigation but confirmed it remains active. The department’s reclassification of the case as critical underscores the urgency of the situation, though no suspects or motives have been publicly identified.
Aileen Forbes, who spoke to multiple outlets, emphasized the family’s hope for her sister’s safety while acknowledging the gravity of the situation. “I’m still trying very hard to keep the faith,” she said. “I have a strong belief from the start that my sister is alive.”
Neighbors and local community members have been urged to come forward with any information that could assist in the search.
Background: Who is Antoinette Forbes?
Forbes, described as an Asian woman, 5 feet 2 inches tall, weighing about 115 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes, was last seen wearing unknown clothing. She is a beloved sister and mother, with a close-knit family actively coordinating search efforts. Her disappearance has left the community in shock, with friends and relatives urging anyone with information to contact authorities immediately.