Retired General William McCasland goes missing in New Mexico

Authorities warn of medical concerns for the former Kirtland Air Force Base leader's safety.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Retired U.S. Air Force Major General William Neil McCasland, 68, was last seen on Friday morning near Quail Run Court NE in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office has issued a Silver Alert, stating that they are concerned for McCasland's safety due to his medical issues.

Why it matters

McCasland was a longtime leader at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico, previously commanding the base's Phillips Research Site and Air Force Research Laboratory. His disappearance has raised concerns within the local military community.

The details

According to authorities, McCasland was last seen around 11 a.m. on Friday, but it is unknown what he was wearing or which direction he may have traveled. The sheriff's office has asked the public to report any information about McCasland's whereabouts.

  • McCasland was last seen around 11 a.m. on Friday, March 2, 2026.

The players

William Neil McCasland

A retired U.S. Air Force Major General who was a longtime leader at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico, previously commanding the base's Phillips Research Site and Air Force Research Laboratory.

Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that has issued a Silver Alert for McCasland and is coordinating the search efforts.

Col. Justin Secrest

The commander of the 377th Air Base Wing at Kirtland Air Force Base, who stated that the base is coordinating with local authorities in the search for McCasland.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.'”

— Col. Justin Secrest, Commander, 377th Air Base Wing, Kirtland Air Force Base (Albuquerque Journal)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of coordinated search efforts between military and local law enforcement when a high-profile individual goes missing, especially one with medical concerns that could impact their safety.