Retired US Air Force Major General Reported Missing in New Mexico, Silver Alert Issued
William Neil McCasland, a retired US Air Force major general and former commander of critical research units, has been reported missing in New Mexico, leading authorities to issue a Silver Alert amid serious concerns for his health and safety. The 68-year-old veteran was last seen around 11 a.m. on Friday near Quail Run Court NE in Albuquerque, according to the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office.
Details of the Disappearance and Public Appeal
Officials have stated that they do not know what McCasland was wearing at the time of his disappearance or which direction he may have traveled. Due to his medical issues, law enforcement is deeply concerned for his safety, as highlighted in a sheriff’s office statement. The public is urged to come forward with any information that could assist in locating him.
Authorities have provided specific contact methods for tips: individuals can text BCSO to 847411 or reach out to the sheriff’s Missing Persons Unit directly at +1 (505) 468-7070. The case is being treated as a missing person investigation under a Silver Alert, which is typically activated when an elderly individual or someone with health concerns goes missing.
McCasland’s Distinguished Military Career
McCasland is a longtime leader at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico, having previously commanded Kirtland’s Phillips Research Site and the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. His official US Air Force biography notes that, as commander of the Air Force Research Laboratory, he managed the Air Force’s USD 2.2 billion science and technology program, along with an additional USD 2.2 billion in customer-funded research and development.
Commissioned in 1979 after graduating from the United States Air Force Academy with a degree in astronautical engineering, McCasland held multiple senior leadership roles in space research, acquisition, and operations. His extensive career also included significant work with the National Reconnaissance Office, underscoring his expertise in defense and aerospace sectors.
Coordinated Search Efforts and Community Response
Col. Justin Secrest, commander of the 377th Air Base Wing at Kirtland, confirmed that the base is working closely with local law enforcement agencies. We are coordinating closely with local authorities and defer all updates regarding the search efforts to the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, Secrest told the Albuquerque Journal. He added, Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.
US Rep. Melanie Stansbury also shared news of McCasland’s disappearance on social media, emphasizing his long service and leadership at Kirtland. While some social media users have drawn comparisons to other high-profile missing persons cases, authorities have not indicated any evidence of abduction. Investigators continue to appeal for public assistance, reiterating that there is no confirmed information about the circumstances of his disappearance.
The search for McCasland remains active, with officials treating it as a priority due to his medical condition and the potential risks involved. The community and military networks are mobilizing to support the efforts, hoping for a safe resolution.
