Local News
Authorities believe believe Elliott Blackwell, who had dementia, went missing while walking in the woods behind his home July 8.
Elliott Blackwell, 91, was found dead Sunday after going missing in Warren. Warren Police Department
July 20, 2026 | 11:59 AM
1 minute to read
A missing 91-year-old Massachusetts man was found dead Sunday, 11 days after he wandered away from home.
Authorities in Warren believe Elliott Blackwell, who had dementia, went missing while walking in the woods behind his home on Cutler Road July 8. Following an extensive search, a K9 team located Blackwell and pronounced him dead Sunday afternoon, the Warren Fire Department confirmed.
“Undoubtedly, this was not the outcome that we had hoped and prayed for, but this discovery has been able to provide closure to the family,” the department said in a statement. “We are extremely grateful for all of the local, state, and volunteer organizations that have worked extensively to bring this missing persons case to a resolution.”
The search for Blackwell spanned land, air, and local bodies of water, necessitating the use of K9s, drones, and a dive team, the Warren Fire Department noted. Central Massachusetts Search and Rescue said it spent 150 hours last week searching for Blackwell alongside crews from 75 other agencies.
The Warren Fire Department referred further inquiries to the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office.
“The loss of this family has been felt by all,” the department added. “Our most sincere condolences.”
Abby Patkin is a general assignment news reporter whose work touches on public transit, crime, health, and everything in between.
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