Search Underway for Missing Retired Air Force Major General in New Mexico

Authorities in New Mexico are actively searching for retired Major General William Neil McCasland, who was reported missing. The 68-year-old was last seen in Albuquerque, prompting a Silver Alert due to medical concerns. With a distinguished career in the Air Force, McCasland's disappearance has raised public interest. Local law enforcement is coordinating efforts to locate him, and they are urging anyone with information to come forward. The investigation is currently focused on retracing his last known movements, with no evidence of foul play reported at this time. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 3, 2026, 11:03 IST

Missing Person Alert Issued for Major General McCasland

Authorities in New Mexico have initiated a search for retired Major General William Neil McCasland of the US Air Force, who was reported missing on Friday morning. The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office indicated that the 68-year-old was last seen around 11 a.m. near Quail Run Court NE in Albuquerque. Specific details regarding his attire or potential direction of travel have not been disclosed. Due to medical concerns, there are increased fears for his well-being. A Silver Alert, which is typically issued for elderly individuals or those with health issues who go missing, is currently active. Anyone with information is encouraged to reach out to local law enforcement or the sheriff’s Missing Persons Unit.

A Distinguished Career in Air Force Research

A Career At The Forefront Of Air Force Research

William Neil McCasland was commissioned in 1979 after earning a degree in astronautical engineering from the United States Air Force Academy. Throughout his extensive career, he held numerous senior leadership positions in space operations, advanced research, and acquisition programs. He commanded the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, where he oversaw a significant science and technology portfolio worth billions. The AFRL is responsible for research in various fields, including space systems, directed energy, propulsion, materials science, and advanced weaponry.

Additionally, McCasland led units at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico, including the Phillips Research Site, which has a long-standing reputation for pioneering aerospace and space research, collaborating with agencies like the National Reconnaissance Office.

While some discussions online have speculated about his previous roles in relation to advanced aerospace research, officials have not suggested any link between his disappearance and his career. The case is being treated solely as a missing persons investigation.

Current Search Operations

Ongoing Search Efforts

Col. Justin Secrest, who commands the 377th Air Base Wing at Kirtland, confirmed that the base is working closely with local law enforcement and is directing updates to the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office. US Representative Melanie Stansbury has also publicly recognized McCasland’s disappearance, highlighting his long-standing service in the area. Authorities have emphasized that there is currently no confirmed evidence of abduction or foul play. Investigators are concentrating on collecting tips and retracing his last known movements. The Silver Alert remains active as search efforts progress, and officials are urging anyone with pertinent information to come forward without delay.