Michigan State Police (MSP) conducted a coordinated effort to locate an 86-year-old man from Van Buren County who was reported missing last Saturday night. The man, who had gone out to check his 200-acre property, did not return home, leading to a rescue operation that included troopers, a dog team, and a helicopter. He was found cold and confused, but in stable condition.
The incident took place in Almena Township, where the individual left in the afternoon on his Gator utility vehicle. As evening arrived and temperatures dropped into the teens, he had not returned, prompting his wife to request assistance. Due to his medical conditions, concerns for his well-being increased, detailed by WOODTV in their coverage of the event.
Troopers and their canine partners navigated the wooded terrain on foot, locating the disoriented man, whose Gator had become stuck. According to a statement obtained by WOODTV, Michigan State Police stated that the man had likely been exposed to the harsh elements "for hours" before being found. He was safe upon discovery.
To support the first responders, Michigan State Police's Trooper 3 aerial unit joined the effort, helping to successfully direct the search back to the man's residence. It was there that he received medical treatment on-site, opting to decline further help, as per a social media post by the MSP Fifth District. The post expressed appreciation for "great teamwork" which "contributed to this outstanding rescue."
NEWS RELEASE: March 6, 2025
— MSP Fifth District (@MspSouthwestMI) March 6, 2025
Missing Person Safely Recovered
VAN BUREN COUNTY, MICH. Troopers from the Paw Paw Post responded to a missing 86-year-old man this past Saturday, March 1, in rural Almena Township. He'd left his home in the late… pic.twitter.com/qPmIrJx1vN
