The West Los Angeles community is being urged to help locate 42-year-old Irina Lapina, a missing woman originally from St. Petersburg, Russia, who was last seen in the Mar Vista area on Sunday, May 10, 2026. Family members and friends are growing increasingly concerned for her safety and wellbeing as days pass without any contact or confirmed sightings.
Irina Lapina, a United States citizen known for her intelligence, warmth, and resilience, was reportedly staying at a friend’s apartment in Mar Vista at the time of her disappearance. According to those close to her, she had recently been facing significant personal challenges, including homelessness, unemployment, severe depression, and ongoing legal difficulties. Loved ones say her sudden disappearance is entirely out of character and has raised serious fears for her safety.
Friends describe Irina as highly educated and accomplished, holding a PhD in Microbiology and previously working with both University of Southern California and University of California, Los Angeles. They say she is a thoughtful and intelligent woman who typically remained in contact, making the complete silence since her disappearance deeply alarming.
According to those assisting in the search, nearly all of Irina’s personal belongings — including her clothes, makeup, sunglasses, and other possessions — were left untouched at the apartment. The only items reportedly missing were her purse and herself. Multiple attempts to contact her by phone have been unsuccessful, with all calls reportedly going directly to voicemail regardless of the number used to call.
A missing persons report has been officially filed with the Los Angeles Police Department Pacific Division after loved ones realized she had vanished and stopped responding to calls and messages.
Irina is described as approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing around 140 pounds. She wears glasses and has a noticeable Russian accent. She was last seen wearing a short black skirt, a loose reddish-brown sweater over a white T-shirt, and flat black shoes.
Friends and supporters are pleading with the public to remain alert and report any possible sightings or information that could assist investigators and loved ones searching for her. They emphasize that even the smallest detail could help bring Irina home safely.
Anyone with information regarding Irina Lapina’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact local authorities or the Los Angeles Police Department immediately. Her family and friends continue holding onto hope for her safe return.