Retired Maj. Gen. William Neil McCasland, who previously led the Air Force Research Laboratory and the Phillips Research Site at Kirtland Air Force Base, is currently missing, the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office reported. McCasland was last seen Feb. 27 around 11:00 a.m. near Quail Run Court NE, but the circumstances of his disappearance, including his clothing and travel direction, remain unknown.

Law enforcement officials expressed concern for McCasland’s safety due to undisclosed medical issues. He is described as a white male, 5’11” and 160 pounds, with white hair and blue eyes.

Search efforts are ongoing with assistance from New Mexico Search and Rescue, and authorities are requesting the public’s help in providing tips through the missing persons hotline.

Col. Justin Secrest, base commander of the 377th Air Base Wing, said the Air Force is coordinating closely with local authorities while deferring updates to the sheriff’s office. “Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time,” he stated.

McCasland was commissioned in 1979 after graduating from the U.S. Air Force Academy with a Bachelor of Science in astronautical engineering. He later earned advanced degrees in aeronautical and astronautical engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

During his tenure at the Air Force Research Laboratory, McCasland managed a $2.2 billion science and technology program and an additional $2.2 billion in customer-funded research and development. He oversaw a global workforce of 10,800 personnel across multiple directorates, including the 711th Human Performance Wing and the Air Force Office of Scientific Research.

McCasland’s career included 16 assignments and numerous honors, including the Distinguished Service Medal. Authorities continue to actively search for him as the investigation remains ongoing.