Award-winning journalist David M. Higgins II covers the ongoing search for 86-year-old Richard Wilson Jr., who has Alzheimer’s disease and has been missing from his Waldorf home for over a month. The Charles County Sheriff’s Office initiated the search after Wilson was last seen on January 25, 2025, by his family members. The call for his disappearance was made later that evening at 6:15 p.m., prompting a comprehensive search effort involving helicopters, boats, and ground teams.
Described as 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 150 pounds, Wilson may be wearing a tan winter coat, blue hat, and blue jeans. Authorities are encouraging residents and business owners in the Fort Washington area to review security camera footage that could help track Wilson’s movements and provide crucial information to aid in the search.
Collaborative Search Efforts
Multiple law enforcement agencies, including Prince George’s County Police, Maryland State Police, Fairfax County Police, the Department of Natural Resources Police, and Maryland Transportation Authority Police, are collaborating to locate Wilson. The search efforts also involve police K9s and volunteer canine search teams to cover a wider area and increase the chances of finding Wilson.
Days after Wilson disappeared, cell phone data indicated his presence in the Tantallon area of Prince George’s County. Investigators conducted thorough door-to-door canvasses and later obtained surveillance footage capturing Wilson walking along Swann Creek Road in Fort Washington. These critical pieces of information have helped narrow down the search area and provide a clearer picture of Wilson’s potential whereabouts.
Community Engagement and Support
Authorities have maintained close communication with Wilson’s family throughout the search process, offering support and updates on the ongoing efforts. In a bid to raise awareness about Wilson’s disappearance, law enforcement agencies have reached out to the news media for broader coverage. The community has also played a crucial role, with individuals urged to report any sightings or information that could lead to Wilson’s safe return.
Detective Johnson, who can be reached at 301-609-6453, is spearheading the investigation and is urging anyone with relevant information to come forward. Local police departments are also actively involved in the search and are working collaboratively with the Sheriff’s Office to bring Wilson home safely.
As the search for Richard Wilson Jr. intensifies, the collective efforts of law enforcement agencies, volunteers, and the community underscore the unwavering commitment to finding him and reuniting him with his loved ones. The shared determination and resilience in the face of adversity serve as a testament to the strength of community bonds and the relentless pursuit of ensuring the safety and well-being of every individual, especially those most vulnerable.
David M. Higgins II, a seasoned journalist with a deep-rooted connection to the local community, encapsulates the essence of this shared purpose and the intrinsic values that drive individuals to come together in times of need. With each passing day, the search for Richard Wilson Jr. continues, fueled by hope, compassion, and the unwavering belief that he will soon be found, bringing a sense of relief and solace to all those involved.
