Searches are continuing in Castellammare di Stabia for Catello Esposito, known locally as Lino, an 80-year-old man who disappeared on Sunday 13 September 2026. Nine days later, on 22 September, local authorities and search teams were still looking for him, with his family appealing for public help.
Who is missing
Esposito is described as approximately 170 cm tall, with a slim build, brown eyes and white hair. At the time of his disappearance, he was reportedly wearing a light-coloured shirt, dark tracksuit trousers and slippers. Sources differ slightly on some physical details and on the precise description of his clothing, but the core description is consistent across local reports and the national missing-person listing.
The case has also been reported to the Rai programme “Chi l’ha visto?”, which lists Esposito as missing from Castellammare di Stabia since 13 September 2026.
Last movements
According to the reports, Esposito left his home without taking anything with him and did not return. A camera reportedly recorded him walking away.
The last reported sighting was near Viale Puglia. Authorities have warned that he might be confused or disoriented, which adds urgency to the search.
The exact route he took after leaving home remains unclear, and the sources do not confirm whether any reported sightings after that point have been independently verified. No confirmed current location has been established.
The search on 22 September
By 22 September, the search involved law enforcement and specialist search resources. Metropolis reported the involvement of specialist dog units, alongside checks of hospitals and emergency facilities. The Carabinieri began searches after the family filed a missing-person report.
The continued operation nine days after the disappearance reflects concern for an elderly man who left home lightly dressed in slippers and without belongings.
How the public can help
Anyone with useful information is asked to contact the authorities promptly. Local reports direct the public to the Carabinieri or to the emergency number 112.
The family has appealed for assistance from residents and anyone who may have been in the Castellammare area since 13 September, including drivers or residents who may have camera footage showing Esposito walking away from home.