Overview
Federal authorities in New Mexico are actively investigating the disappearance of a retired United States Air Force general who has been missing for roughly two weeks. The veteran, who previously served as a senior adviser on unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) research for musician‑entrepreneur Tom DeLonge, was last seen in Albuquerque on February 24, 2026. Police have not released the general’s name, citing privacy concerns for the family, but confirm that he was a “high‑ranking officer with extensive experience in intelligence and aerospace operations.”
Background
The general’s involvement with DeLonge began in 2023, when the former Blink‑182 frontman founded the To the Stars Academy of Arts & Science to study UAPs and promote transparency. According to a statement from DeLonge’s public‑relations office, the retired officer “provided critical insight into classified aerospace data and helped bridge the gap between the military community and civilian researchers.” The collaboration yielded several briefings for congressional committees and contributed to the release of previously classified footage in late 2024.
During his 30‑year Air Force career, the officer held command positions at Air Force Space Command and served as a senior intelligence analyst at the National Reconnaissance Office. He retired in 2021 with the rank of major general and was later recruited by DeLonge for his deep knowledge of sensor technology and military protocols.
Investigation
The Albuquerque Police Department (APD) opened a missing‑person case on February 28, 2026, after family members reported that the general had not been heard from since a scheduled meeting at a downtown café. APD spokesperson Detective Maria Alvarez said, “We have conducted extensive interviews with friends, colleagues, and the general’s known associates. At this stage, we are treating the case as a missing‑person investigation, not a criminal matter.”
Law enforcement officials have canvassed the area surrounding the café, reviewed surveillance footage, and issued an Amber Alert‑style bulletin to regional agencies. The general’s vehicle—a black 2025 Chevrolet Suburban—was located parked near the meeting spot on the morning of February 25, but no sign of the driver was found. A search team, including members of the New Mexico State Police and U.S. Marshals Service, continues to comb nearby neighborhoods and the Rio Grande floodplain.
Reactions
Tom DeLonge released a brief statement through his spokesperson on March 10, 2026, expressing concern: “We are deeply worried about our friend and colleague. His contributions to UAP research have been invaluable, and we are cooperating fully with investigators.” DeLonge’s organization, To the Stars, also announced that it would provide any relevant research records to assist the investigation, while emphasizing respect for the general’s privacy.
The family, who declined to be named, has asked for privacy but urged the public to “share any information that might help locate him.” A GoFundMe campaign set up by a close friend has raised over $25,000 to cover travel and legal expenses for the family during the ongoing search.
Next Steps
Police have not ruled out any particular scenario and are awaiting forensic analysis of the general’s phone records and the Suburban’s onboard GPS data. Detectives also plan to interview former colleagues at the U.S. Department of Defense who worked with the general on classified UAP projects.
Authorities ask anyone who saw the retired officer after February 24 or who has information about his whereabouts to contact the Albuquerque Police Department at (505) 555‑0198 or submit tips anonymously via Crime Stoppers New Mexico. As the investigation proceeds, officials stress that they are committed to a thorough, transparent process while respecting the sensitivities surrounding classified research.
The article reflects information available as of March 12, 2026, and will be updated as new details emerge.
