Search Intensifies for Missing Retired Air Force General William McCasland

Authorities are continuing their search for retired Air Force Maj. Gen. William “Neil” McCasland, 68, who has been missing since February 27, 2026. The search has expanded to include his vacation home, where hiking boots believed to belong to him were discovered.

Timeline of Disappearance

McCasland was last seen leaving his Albuquerque, New Mexico, home on foot around 11 a.m. On February 27th. Earlier that morning, a repairman interacted with McCasland at his home between 9 and 10 a.m., describing him as being in a “mental fog.” His wife was out for a medical appointment at the time of his disappearance, returning home at 12:04 p.m. To find him missing. She reported him missing at 3:07 p.m.

Missing Items and Items Recovered

McCasland left behind his phone, glasses and wearable devices. However, his wallet, a .38-caliber revolver and holster, and a red backpack remain unaccounted for. A U.S. Air Force sweatshirt was recovered more than a mile from his home, but authorities have not confirmed if it belongs to him.

Investigation and Search Efforts

The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office issued a Silver Alert for McCasland. The FBI joined the search effort on March 3, 2026, assisting local authorities. Authorities have interviewed everyone in the area and are urging residents to check home security video captured between February 27th and 28th.

Background and Previous Service

McCasland previously commanded Kirtland Air Force Base’s Phillips Research Site and Air Force Research Laboratory. He retired in 2013 after a career in aerospace engineering, holding a Ph.D. From the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He too consulted on UFOs for Blink-182’s Tom DeLonge.

Wife Disputes Speculation

Susan McCasland Wilkerson, McCasland’s wife, has refuted claims that he was confused or disoriented before his disappearance, and has also dismissed speculation linking his disappearance to his past work or knowledge of extraterrestrials. She stated he was not experiencing dementia.

How to Aid

Authorities are asking anyone with information about McCasland’s whereabouts to text BCSO to 847411 or contact the sheriff’s Missing Persons Unit at 505-468-7070.