Authorities in New Mexico are now reportedly racing to locate a retired U.S. Air Force general whose disappearance has sparked serious concern, particularly given reported medical issues that may place him at risk.
Retired Maj. Gen. William Neil McCasland, 68, was last seen around 11 a.m. Friday near Quail Run Court NE in Albuquerque, according to the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office. Since then, there has been no confirmed sighting of the decorated Air Force veteran, prompting officials to issue a Silver Alert as the search intensifies.
Law enforcement officials acknowledged that key details remain unclear. Investigators do not know what McCasland was wearing at the time he was last seen, nor do they have information about which direction he may have traveled. The lack of specifics has complicated the search effort and heightened anxiety among those who know him.
“Due to his medical issues, law enforcement is concerned for his safety,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement, underscoring the urgency of locating the retired general as quickly as possible.
McCasland is no stranger to leadership or service. Over the course of a distinguished career, he became a longtime leader at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico, a key installation with deep ties to the nation’s defense and research missions. He previously commanded Kirtland’s Phillips Research Site and the Air Force Research Laboratory, playing a significant role in advancing the country’s space and research capabilities.
Col. Justin Secrest, commander of the 377th Air Base Wing at Kirtland, confirmed that the base is actively coordinating with local authorities as the search continues.
“Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time,” Secrest told the Albuquerque Journal, reflecting the concern felt across the military community.
McCasland’s service to the nation dates back decades. He was commissioned in 1979 after graduating from the U.S. Air Force Academy with a degree in astronautical engineering. Over the years, he held multiple leadership roles in space research, acquisition and operations. His career included work with the National Reconnaissance Office, placing him at the center of highly sensitive and critical national security missions.
Friends, colleagues and community members are now hoping that the same dedication and resolve he showed throughout his military career will be matched by a swift and successful search effort.
Authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information that could help locate McCasland. Anyone with details about his whereabouts is asked to text BCSO to 847411 or contact the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office Missing Persons Unit at (505) 468-7070.
As the search continues, concern remains high. Law enforcement officials have made clear that time is of the essence, especially given the medical factors involved. For now, the focus remains on bringing a respected Air Force leader safely home.
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