An 86-year-old Waldorf man, Richard Wilson Jr., reported missing since January 25, was found deceased in the water near Mariner Drive in Fort Washington on March 27, according to Charles County Sheriff’s Office detectives.
The discovery came after a notification from the Prince George’s County Police Department at approximately 2 p.m., ending a two-month search for Wilson, who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease.
Wilson was last seen alive on Swan Creek Road in Fort Washington, roughly five miles from his home in Waldorf. Authorities believe he walked away from his residence, prompting an extensive search effort that spanned multiple jurisdictions and utilized advanced resources.
The Charles County Sheriff’s Office led the operation, deploying cell phone tracking, helicopters, boats, dive teams, and K-9 units. Earlier this week, search teams, including certified volunteer K-9 units and personnel from partnering law enforcement agencies, combed the Fort Washington Park area in a coordinated effort to locate him.
Sheriff Troy D. Berry expressed sympathy for Wilson’s family, stating, “Our hearts go out to Mr. Wilson’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.” The sheriff’s office has not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding Wilson’s death, pending an autopsy to determine the cause. Detective Johnson is leading the ongoing investigation.
Wilson’s disappearance highlighted the challenges of locating individuals with Alzheimer’s, a condition that affects memory and spatial awareness, often leading to wandering behavior. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, six in 10 people with dementia will wander at some point, and such incidents can quickly become life-threatening if the individual is not found within 24 hours. The organization notes that water bodies, like the one where Wilson was discovered, pose a significant risk to missing persons with the condition.
The search for Wilson involved collaboration across local agencies, showcasing the region’s commitment to public safety. Fort Washington, located along the Potomac River, is a scenic area with parks and residential neighborhoods, but its proximity to water and wooded areas complicated efforts to find Wilson sooner. The National Park Service, which oversees Fort Washington Park, has not commented on the incident.
For now, the focus shifts to supporting Wilson’s family as they grieve.
