Search for Missing Retired Air Force General Continues

Hiking boots found at vacation home as investigation enters third week

Mar. 16, 2026 at 11:19pm

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Authorities searching for retired Air Force Maj. Gen. William "Neil" McCasland, who went missing from his Albuquerque, New Mexico home on February 27, have discovered hiking boots believed to belong to him at his vacation home. The 68-year-old aerospace engineer has been missing for over two weeks, and a Silver Alert remains in effect as investigators continue to search for clues about his disappearance.

Why it matters

McCasland's disappearance has sparked widespread concern in the community, as he is a highly respected retired military officer with no known history of mental health issues or foul play. The discovery of the hiking boots at his vacation home has raised new questions about his whereabouts and the circumstances surrounding his disappearance.

The details

Investigators said they are still working to determine if the hiking boots found at McCasland's vacation home are connected to his disappearance. McCasland was last seen leaving his Albuquerque home on foot around 11 a.m. on February 27, leaving behind his phone, glasses, and wearable devices. However, his wallet, a revolver, and a red backpack are still missing. A repairman who spoke with McCasland that morning described him as being in a "mental fog," though authorities said there was no indication he was disoriented or confused.

  • McCasland was last seen leaving his Albuquerque home on foot around 11 a.m. on February 27.
  • The search for McCasland has now entered its third week.

The players

William "Neil" McCasland

A 68-year-old retired Air Force Maj. Gen. and aerospace engineer who went missing from his Albuquerque, New Mexico home on February 27.

Susan McCasland Wilkerson

McCasland's wife, who has pushed back on speculation tying his disappearance to his past military work.

Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency leading the search for McCasland.

FBI

The federal agency that joined the search effort on March 3 to assist local authorities.

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What they’re saying

“It is true that when Neil was in the Air Force, he had access to some highly classified programs and information. He retired from the AF almost 13 years ago and has had only very commonly held clearances since.”

— Susan McCasland Wilkerson (Facebook)

What’s next

Authorities are urging residents to check home security video captured between February 27 and February 28, which investigators say is a critical window in the search for McCasland.

The takeaway

The disappearance of the highly respected retired Air Force general has sparked widespread concern in the community, and the discovery of his hiking boots at his vacation home has raised new questions about the circumstances surrounding his disappearance. Investigators continue to search for clues and are appealing to the public for any information that could help locate McCasland.