GAITHERSBURG, Md. — An 80-year-old man missing for five days was found alive in a wooded area near Green Farm Conservation Park, Montgomery County officials said Thursday.
William Heyward, the subject of a statewide Silver Alert, was discovered in critical condition and transported to a local hospital by Montgomery County Fire Rescue.
Heyward was last seen around 2 a.m. on June 27 and reported missing later that morning from a residence on the 7500 block of Brenish Drive. His caretaker alerted authorities after noticing both his absence and a missing black and white blanket.
Montgomery County Police initiated a search, supported by specialized units, and issued a Silver Alert with Heyward’s image and last known location. The search expanded as weather conditions worsened, with high heat and rain complicating efforts.
On Wednesday, officers with Maryland-National Capital Park Police located the missing blanket near Green Farm Conservation Park. Authorities then conducted a coordinated search with the Montgomery County Police 6th District, the Special Operations Division, Park Police Special Operations, and volunteer canine units.
Heyward was found in heavy brush and received immediate medical treatment on scene before being taken to the hospital.