It’s been three months since Larry Burton went missing from the HMF Family Home Care facility in Greensboro, North Carolina. Last week, the facility’s owner, Hazel Mae Forman, was charged with allegedly running an unlicensed care facility, adding another layer of frustration and heartache to Burton’s family’s ongoing search for answers.
What Happened
Larry Burton, 78, was reported missing from the HMF Family Home Care facility in Greensboro in July 2025, and his family has been desperately searching for him ever since. His grandson, Amare Swift, expressed the pain and confusion his family feels as the search continues with no signs of Burton. Despite the emotional toll, Swift says, “We have our good days, we have our bad days, but we hold up,” reflecting the strength his family has shown through this difficult time.
The case has taken a legal turn as Hazel Mae Forman, the owner of the facility, was charged with operating an unlicensed care facility. This new development has added further strain to the family’s ordeal, as they await answers to both the whereabouts of Burton and the legality of the care he was receiving.
Family Impact
For Swift, the time spent with his grandfather before his placement at the facility is cherished. “He loves to eat… He just loves to ride around,” Swift shared, remembering simple moments with Burton. Swift also noted that although Burton and his wife had separated years ago, she still asks about him daily, though she suffers from dementia.
This ongoing uncertainty and distress have driven others in the community to lend a hand. Retired Navy Veteran Vernon Shurtz has been organizing his own searches for Burton, using drones and sonar equipment to search areas like Barber Park, where he believes Burton might be. Shurtz, who cared for his mother during her battle with Alzheimer’s and dementia, understands the emotional toll this situation takes.
“Once you’re down in them, it’s so hard to get out,” Shurtz said, referring to his searches in creeks and drainage ditches. His ongoing searches, amounting to over 40 hours of effort, aim to bring answers to the family and to bring Larry Burton home.
Efforts to Find Burton
Since the expiration of the Silver Alert for Burton, his information has been entered into national databases, including the National Missing Persons and Unidentified Persons system and the National Crime Information Center, ensuring that law enforcement across the country has access to his details. Despite the ongoing challenges, Swift and the community are not giving up.
“We’re very grateful, especially because we’re so far away,” said Swift, referring to their family’s location in Tampa. “We can’t do but so much, but we can definitely help out where we can.”
Public and Social Media Reactions
As the case continues, the Greensboro community remains engaged in the search for Larry Burton. Local residents and groups have rallied around the family, offering both emotional and physical support. On social media, updates on Burton’s case have sparked widespread attention, with many offering tips or encouraging others to join the search.
Official Statements and What Happens Next
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances of Burton’s disappearance and the alleged unlicensed operation of the HMF Family Home Care facility. The case remains active, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact Greensboro Crime Stoppers.
Closing
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
