ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Authorities are searching for retired U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. William Neil McCasland, 68, a former commander of the Air Force Research Laboratory, who was reported missing Friday morning.
The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) issued a Silver Alert after McCasland was last seen near Quail Run Court NE in Albuquerque. Deputies said they do not know what he was wearing or where he may have been headed.
According to BCSO spokesperson Deanna Aragon, McCasland is described as 5 feet, 11 inches tall and weighing approximately 160 pounds, with blue eyes and gray hair.
Officials say medical concerns make the situation especially serious. Investigators believe he may be in danger.
Search underway
New Mexico Search and Rescue teams are assisting local law enforcement in the search. Authorities have not released further details about the circumstances surrounding his disappearance.
The Silver Alert remains in effect. The public notification is issued when an adult with health issues goes missing and may be at risk.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have information about his whereabouts to come forward. Tips can be submitted by texting BCSO to 847411 or by calling the sheriff’s office Missing Persons Unit at (505) 468-7070. Law enforcement officials are urging residents to report any possible sightings or tips, no matter how minor they may seem.
Long Air Force career
McCasland spent decades in the Air Force and rose to lead the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. As commander of AFRL, he oversaw major research and development programs focused on science and technology critical to national defense.
Earlier in his career, he served at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, where he commanded the Phillips Research Site. After retiring from active duty, he remained active in defense and technology circles and served on advisory boards.
Officials at Kirtland said they are coordinating closely with civilian authorities in the search.
For now, investigators are focused on finding him safely. Authorities say time is critical and are asking the public to stay alert as search operations continue.
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