The FBI has joined the search for retired Maj. Gen. William N. McCasland, 68, who disappeared from his Albuquerque home on Feb. 27. The former Air Force Research Laboratory commander left his residence near the Sandia Mountains foothills and hasn't been seen since. His cellphone was found at home, and investigators believe he left on foot around 11 a.m.

McCasland, who oversaw a global workforce of approximately 10,800 people during his military career, retired nearly 13 years ago. The Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office issued a Silver Alert citing unspecified "medical issues" as a concern for his safety. However, his wife, Susan McCasland Wilkerson, disputed claims of confusion, stating on Facebook that her husband was "not from dementia" and "not confused and disoriented."

Search efforts have included door-to-door canvassing of over 600 homes and businesses, drone surveillance, and helicopter operations in the Sandia Foothills area. The FBI confirmed it's assisting local authorities using specialized techniques. McCasland's disappearance has drawn additional attention due to his past connection with UFO research through his work at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and brief consulting role with Tom DeLonge's To The Stars organization.