This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

The search for a legally blind missing man with mental disabilities has intensified in the area surrounding the Jordan River Trail in South Salt Lake.

South Salt Lake police spokesman Gary Keller said Benjamin Thomas Hyde, 35, has been missing since 4 p.m. Wednesday. He was last seen at an assisted living facility run by Valley Mental Health, where he is allowed to come and go freely, according to Keller.

On Friday afternoon, more than 48 hours after Hyde went missing, police and officials from the Salt Lake County Search and Rescue team were still searching for him near the vicinity of the Jordan River. Keller said that officials are not requesting help from volunteers because of concerns about the river's high water.

Keller did not expand on what mental issues Hyde has. He added that Hyde's blindness is concerning, especially considering the rising and swifter waters of the river brought on by melting snow.

Police describe Hyde as 6-feet-1-inch, 180 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a dark-colored T-shirt — possibly green — and dark pants. He can get around unassisted and frequents the area around 3300 South, from 800 West to Redwood Road, according to police.

Dispatchers said late Friday night that the search for Hyde was continuing.

Anyone who sees him is encouraged to call emergency dispatchers at 801-840-4000.

kbennion@sltrib.com

Twitter: @KimballBennion