Retired Air Force Major General Missing for Weeks

Authorities search for clues in the mysterious disappearance of William N. McCasland in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 4:55am

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Retired U.S. Air Force Major General William N. 'Neil' McCasland, 68, was last seen at his Albuquerque home on February 27. His wife reported him missing that afternoon after returning home and finding him gone. Authorities have searched the area extensively but have found no clear evidence of what happened to McCasland, who had recently mentioned experiencing a 'mental fog'.

Why it matters

McCasland was a highly respected former Air Force officer who held senior roles in space research and operations. His mysterious disappearance has raised concerns in the community and prompted an intensive search by local law enforcement.

The details

On the day he went missing, a repairman had been at McCasland's home and interacted with him around 10 a.m. His wife left for a medical appointment at 11:10 a.m. and returned at 12:04 p.m. to find him gone. McCasland's phone was left behind, which authorities say is out of the norm. A gray Air Force sweatshirt was found about 1.25 miles from his house, but it's unclear if it belongs to McCasland. His wallet, a .38 caliber revolver, and a red backpack are also unaccounted for.

  • On February 27, 2026, McCasland was last seen at his Albuquerque home at 10 a.m.
  • McCasland's wife left their home at 11:10 a.m. on February 27 and returned at 12:04 p.m. to find him missing.
  • McCasland's wife reported him missing to authorities at 3:07 p.m. on February 27.

The players

William N. 'Neil' McCasland

A 68-year-old retired U.S. Air Force Major General who held senior roles in space research and operations.

John Allen

The Bernalillo County Sheriff who is leading the search for McCasland.

Kyle Woods

A Lieutenant with the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office who is assisting in the investigation.

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What they’re saying

“There's no indication … that Mr. McCasland was disoriented, confused. Arguably, he would still be the most intelligent person in the room.”

— Kyle Woods, Lieutenant, Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office (mycentraloregon.com)

“He did state that he was experiencing a mental fog and was looking into it.”

— John Allen, Sheriff, Bernalillo County (mycentraloregon.com)

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 growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.