Full Breakdown
Ongoing Search for Retired Air Force Major General William Neil McCasland
3/13/2026, 12:29:29 PM
Disappearance Details
Retired U.S. Air Force Major General William Neil McCasland, 68, has been missing since February 27, 2026, after leaving his Albuquerque, New Mexico home around 11 a.m. His wife, Susan McCasland Wilkerson, reported him missing later that day when he failed to return. A Silver Alert was issued the following day due to unspecified medical issues that heightened concerns for his safety. McCasland left behind his phone, prescription glasses, and wearable devices, while his hiking boots, wallet, and a .38 caliber revolver are believed to be missing. The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) is leading the investigation, with assistance from the FBI and other agencies.
Search Efforts
Authorities have conducted extensive search operations, including neighborhood canvassing, interviews, and the deployment of drones, helicopters, and search-and-rescue teams. Over 700 homes in the vicinity have been contacted to gather security camera footage, but no confirmed sightings of McCasland have emerged. The sheriff's office has stated that there is currently no evidence of foul play, but they are considering all possible scenarios.
Background of William Neil McCasland
McCasland has a distinguished military career, having served in various high-level roles, including as commander of the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. He oversaw significant aerospace and defense research programs and was involved in sensitive national security matters. McCasland graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy and holds a doctorate in astronautical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Following his retirement in 2013, he briefly worked with To The Stars, Inc., an organization co-founded by musician Tom DeLonge that focuses on unidentified aerial phenomena.
Speculation and Misinformation
The nature of McCasland's military background has led to speculation regarding his disappearance, particularly concerning his ties to UFO lore associated with Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. However, his wife has publicly refuted claims that he possesses any special knowledge about extraterrestrial matters or that his disappearance is linked to his past work. She emphasized that McCasland does not suffer from dementia and urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified theories that could hinder the search efforts.
Official Statements and Community Involvement
Sheriff John Allen of the BCSO has stated, "Our priority is finding Mr. McCasland safely," and has called on the community for assistance in locating him. Investigators are actively seeking tips and have encouraged residents to check their security footage for any relevant information. The sheriff's office continues to emphasize the importance of verified information in the ongoing search.
Conclusion
As the investigation into McCasland's disappearance continues, authorities remain hopeful for his safe return. The BCSO and FBI are committed to utilizing all available resources to locate him, while the community's support plays a crucial role in the search efforts. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the BCSO's Missing Persons Unit.
