Neighbors urged to check their property as search continues for missing Spencer man

Published 9:51 pm Wednesday, February 13, 2019

SPENCER — Neighbors were urged to check their property Wednesday as the search for 66-year-old Richard “Rick” Travis continued.

Richard Travis

Travis, who suffers from dementia, went missing Monday after he went out for a run around his neighborhood.

He was seen leaving his home near Sowers Ferry Road about 2:30 p.m. and hasn’t been seen since.

Travis was wearing loose black running pants that were cut off at the calf, a silver rain jacket, black gloves and dark running shoes. He is also believed to be wearing a hat.

Travis is described as 6 feet tall, weighing 157 pounds with a slim build. He has gray hair.

Rowan County Emergency Services Battalion Chief Chris Richardson asked Spencer residents to check their outbuildings, sheds, garages and other structures on their property where anyone could seek shelter.

Local emergency management officials said they’ve used K-9 units in the surrounding community as well as helicopters from the N.C. Highway Patrol to aid in the search.

Anyone with information is asked to call 911.