Mendocino Sheriff’s Office Searches for Missing 72-Year-Old Albion Man with Dementia
Authorities in Mendocino County are continuing their search for 72-year-old Albion resident Daniel Jay Salmond, who was last seen on the morning of Thursday, February 27, at his home on Middle Ridge Road in Albion.
According to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), Salmond, who suffers from worsening dementia, was reported missing after his In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) worker returned on March 1 and discovered he was no longer at his residence.
MCSO Captain Provides Search Update
Quincy Cromer, Field Services Captain for MCSO, provided details on the ongoing search:
“Salmond’s IHSS worker, who checks on him every other day, last saw him at home on Thursday, February 27, at around 10:30 AM. When they returned on Saturday, March 1, at approximately 10 AM, he was missing. Given his age and health conditions, including dementia, we immediately launched a search and rescue operation.”
MCSO deployed search and rescue teams that night, with additional teams from Marin, Sonoma, and Humboldt counties joining the search effort. As of now, 47 searchers are actively combing the Albion area.
Despite extensive search efforts, no major clues have been found regarding Salmond’s whereabouts. Authorities believe he left on foot, as he does not drive, but they are considering all possibilities.
Public Urged to Be Cautious in Search Area
On Monday, the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office issued a situational awareness notice, alerting the public that search and rescue operations are ongoing in the Albion Ridge Road area. Authorities are urging caution due to the presence of law enforcement and emergency responders conducting the search.
Is There a Connection to Other Missing Persons Cases?
Salmond is the second elderly individual from an isolated coastal community in northern Mendocino County to go missing in the past month. This has led to speculation about whether the cases could be connected.
However, Captain Cromer dismissed any link between the cases, stating:
“There is no indication these cases are related. Albion and Whitethorn, where the other case occurred, are very far apart. Based on witness reports, we believe Salmond may have left his home on foot, which is why we are focusing search efforts in the area.”
Community Encouraged to Check on Elderly Neighbors
Authorities are urging North Coast residents to check in on their elderly neighbors, particularly those living in remote areas who may need additional support.
“Neighbors and family members are often the first to notice if something is wrong,” said Captain Cromer. “If you have concerns about someone’s well-being, don’t hesitate to call us. There’s no waiting period to report a missing person—if someone isn’t where they’re supposed to be, report it immediately.”
Description of Missing Person
- Name: Daniel Jay Salmond
- Age: 72
- Height: 6 feet
- Weight: 160 pounds
- Hair: Gray, possibly tied in a ponytail
- Eyes: Blue
- Last Seen Wearing: A flannel shirt, khaki pants, and brown boots
How to Help
Anyone with information on Daniel Salmond’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 463-4086 (Option 1 for dispatch).
