AUSTIN, Texas — What began as a simple morning walk turned into a moment of panic for 80-year-old Navy veteran Ernest K., who lost his wallet on Tuesday, June 3, while walking near Balcones District Park in North Austin.

It wasn’t until Ernest stepped inside the nearby mini market that he realized his wallet was missing.

After retracing his steps and checking back at home, he found nothing.

But help was closer than he could have imagined.

Around 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Telemundo Austin Anchor Bruna Cristina was walking along the same path when she spotted a wallet on the grass with what looked to be important personal items.

She immediately called Telemundo Austin reporter Azul Beltrán, who happened to be filming a story just a few blocks away at the Austin Police Substation, on Lamplight Village Avenue.

They filed a report with 311, Austin's non-emergency line, but were told it could take up to 14 days to get a response.

Bruna and Azul both agreed that waiting up to 14 days was just too long.

“My adoptive parents are also 80 years old, so when I saw his ID, it hit close to home,” said Bruna. “I know how difficult it is for elderly people to replace documents, cancel lost cards, and even deal with medical bills that may be set to be paid automatically. We need to make sure Mr. Ernest gets his wallet as soon as possible.”

The wallet was taken to the CBS Austin and Telemundo Austin newsroom, where Executive Producer Excelsha Thomas helped look up Ernest's information.

It wasn’t easy.

The numbers found under a possible match to his ID, did not work.

He also had no digital footprint to follow.

Excelsha then called CBS Austin reporter Abigail Velez to help track down Mr. Ernest.

After hours of searching, Abigail found a possible relative around 6 p.m.

Turns out, Ernest's son was out of the country, but he was thrilled to help with our search.

Later that night, Mr. Ernest called the station directly.

"Hello, I hear a news anchor found my wallet? Thank you so much! I'll be there tomorrow." said Ernest K. with what it sounded like a smile on his face.

This afternoon, the CBS Austin and Telemundo Austin teams stepped outside our station to personally greet him and return the wallet.

“We’re so excited to have found you,” said Azul.

“We’re honored to help someone who served this country,” added Abigail.

“It’s a relief to know everything got back into the right hands,” said Excelsha with a smile.

Bruna offered Ernest a hug and as she handed him the lost wallet.

"Sir, I'm delighted to meet you today, and what an incredible honor to simply go on a walk and find a Navy veteran's wallet! It reminded me of my family who also served in the military."

With a smile, she added “I understand the sacrifice. We know how important it is to take care of our veterans. I hope you head back to that mini market and treat yourself to all the goodies you love! May God continue to bless you and your family, Mr. Ernest. Thank you for your service. I truly hope we cross paths again soon.”

After receiving his wallet, and taking a few pictures, Mr. Ernest thanked us for our hard work, then hopped back on his motorcycle to continue his day.