Missing Sampson County man found alive
GARLAND, N.C. (WTVD) -- William Powell, who was missing for days, was found along a river bank about a mile from US-701 on Sunday evening.
Emergency crews from across the state and some from Virginia worked around the clock to find the missing Garland man.
Around 6 p.m., Powell, 72, was found on the bank of the South River, which is just south of Garland.
Authorities said Powell was alert when emergency crews found him, but was dehydrated.
Powell was airlifted to New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington.
Powell, who is known to friends and loved ones as "Willie," was last seen at his house on Birdy Lane on Tuesday.
The search began on Tuesday afternoon when Sampson County emergency crews received a report of a missing person.
Authorities said Powell suffers from dementia and might have been trying to avoid search crews.
"I am thankful to everyone who helped out in the search for Mr. Powell and I'm extremely thankful for the blessing of being able to locate him," Sheriff Jimmy Thorton said in a statement. "I know the family is elated and relieved."
