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Retired Air Force Colonel Missing in New Mexico

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. red-air-force-colonel-missing-in-new-mexico.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Monday, March 23rd 2026 at 0:39 GMT by Dayton Daily News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - March 23, 2026 - A multi-agency search is underway in New Mexico for retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Peter J. Kaye, former commander of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Authorities are urgently appealing to the public for assistance in locating Kaye, who has been missing since March 17th.

The Albuquerque Police Department (APD) issued a release today, escalating the search and highlighting concerns regarding Kaye's well-being. Kaye, 65, is considered 'at risk' due to a pre-existing medical condition, the specifics of which have not been publicly disclosed. This designation underscores the urgency of the situation, prompting a coordinated effort involving the APD, New Mexico State Police, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Kaye's career spanned decades within the Air Force, culminating in his command of AFRL, a critical component of the Department of the Air Force responsible for leading the discovery, development, and acquisition of warfighting technologies. During his tenure at Wright-Patterson, Kaye oversaw groundbreaking research in areas such as directed energy weapons, hypersonic flight, and advanced materials. His leadership was credited with fostering a culture of innovation and accelerating the delivery of critical technologies to the warfighter. Many within the aerospace community remember Kaye as a visionary leader deeply committed to maintaining America's technological superiority.

"Colonel Kaye's experience and dedication to national security were immense," stated Dr. Evelyn Reed, a former colleague at AFRL. "He was instrumental in shaping the future of aerospace technology, and we are all deeply concerned for his safety. The entire AFRL community is hoping for his swift and safe return."

According to the APD, Kaye was last seen in Albuquerque on March 17th. He is described as being 5 feet, 10 inches tall, weighing approximately 180 pounds, and having gray hair and blue eyes. At the time of his disappearance, Kaye was reportedly wearing a blue fleece jacket, khaki pants, and black shoes. Investigators are currently canvassing the Albuquerque area, reviewing security footage, and following up on all leads.

The FBI's involvement suggests that investigators are considering all possibilities, including the potential for foul play, although authorities have not publicly indicated this is their primary focus. Given Kaye's background and experience, investigators are also exploring the possibility that his disappearance is connected to his past work, though this remains speculative.

The search area is primarily focused on Albuquerque and surrounding areas, but authorities have expanded their reach, collaborating with agencies across New Mexico and neighboring states. Aerial searches using drones and helicopters are being conducted in remote areas, and ground teams are systematically searching parks, trails, and other potential locations.

Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding Kaye's whereabouts to immediately contact the Albuquerque Police Department at 505-242-1478. Even seemingly insignificant details could prove crucial in locating Kaye and ensuring his well-being. The public is also advised to be vigilant and report any sightings of individuals matching Kaye's description to the authorities.

This case is particularly poignant given the growing number of missing persons cases involving veterans and individuals with medical conditions. Advocacy groups are urging increased awareness and resources dedicated to finding vulnerable missing individuals.

The search for Colonel Kaye continues, fueled by the hope of a safe return and the dedication of law enforcement agencies committed to bringing him home.