DPNews@DominionPost.com
KINGWOOD — The West Virginia State Police Kingwood Detachment confirms that an 84-year-old male who had been reported missing has been located deceased following a multi-day search involving multiple local and regional agencies.
On Sunday, Feb. 1, Senior Trooper Wilfong responded to a missing person report at the individual’s residence. Willard A. Dewitt, who had significant medical issues and possible signs of dementia, was reported missing along with his vehicle, a 2024 Toyota Tacoma.
An extensive search effort was immediately initiated, involving the WVSP Kingwood Detachment, WVSP Aviation Unit, Garrett County (Md.) Sheriff’s Department, Garrett County Natural Resources Police, West Virginia Emergency Medical Services, and a local Preston County search team, who utilized a drone to attempt to locate the victim. Search efforts were significantly hindered by extreme snowfall and severe cold temperatures, and initial searches yielded no results.
On Monday, Feb. 9, the WVSP was notified by the Garrett County Sheriff’s Department that Dewitt’s vehicle had been located overturned in the Youghiogheny River near Oakland, Maryland. He was found deceased inside the vehicle.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. However, heavy snow and icy roadway conditions, as well as the victim’s medical condition, are being considered as possible contributing factors.
The West Virginia State Police would like to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of Senior Trooper Wilfong during the search. Senior Trooper Wilfong contacted Toyota Motor Corporation and learned the victim’s vehicle could transmit its location if a cellular signal was obtained. He then acquired a cellular signal booster and drove rural routes throughout Preston County in an effort to locate the vehicle. Senior Trooper Wilfong was assisted in these efforts by Kingwood Detachment troopers, Senior Trooper Casteel and Sergeant Turansky.
Next of kin have been notified by the WVSP Kingwood Detachment. No further information is being released at this time.
