Shenandoah National Park Rangers continue to search for Jose Alfonso Martins, Jr., a 42 year old Manassas man.

Martins left his home on Wednesday, March 26, 2008. His family reported him missing to the Manassas Police Department on Thursday, March 27. Martins’ vehicle was located in the park on Saturday morning, March 29.

Search operations began later that morning and have continued through Tuesday. Operations have centered on the Keyser Run area in the park’s
north district.

Martins is described as a male with black hair and brown eyes, 5’ 4”tall who weighs approximately 140 pounds. It is believed that he is wearing a dark blue ball cap with the words “Ocean City” printed on it. Martins is believed to be despondent.

More than 50 employees and trained volunteers, including ground searchers, dog teams and a helicopter are currently involved in the search. Shenandoah National Park personnel are currently being assisted by Appalachian Search and Rescue, Virginia Search and Rescue Dogs Association, Dogs East Search and Rescue, Top of Virginia Search and Rescue, Search and Rescue Tracking Institution, Virginia State Police, Blue and Grey Search and Rescue Dogs, Manassas Police Department, TROT Search and Rescue, and the United States Park Police.

Anyone with any information Martins or his location is asked to call 1-800-732-0911. For additional information about the search and rescue operation please call 540-999-3300.