Sheriff's Deputies Launch Second Search for Curtis

News Release
For Immediate Release
Contact: (360)427-9670 Ext 313 or (360)275-4467 Ext 313
Authority:  Chief Deputy B.Dean Byrd

MCSO Case #:  09-08350

Shelton, WA - Friday, July 10, 2009

Sheriff’s Deputies today launched a second search for David J. Curtis, 42, Shelton.  Investigators aided by more than 60 searchers from Mason, Thurston, Grays Harbor, Kitsap, King, Pierce and Skamania Counties are again combing the heavily wooded area around Mill Creek about 2½ miles east of Shelton.  The area being searched has been expanded to about 9 square miles.  Searchers are using dog teams, horses and ground searchers to comb the area for Curtis.

The homeless man was reported as missing from his campsite near Mill Creek on June 12.  Family members reporting Curtis missing told officers he had not been seen for about 9 days prior to the report.  Investigators say Curtis maintained a room at a nearby residence, and camped near the banks of Mill Creek.  Deputies also say that it is unlikely Curtis would have missed his son’s graduation.  Witnesses say Curtis left property behind he would not have normally left.   David Curtis is described as a white male, 5’2”, 120 lbs., red hair and brown eyes.  He is known to have medical issues involving seizures.

Anyone having information on the whereabouts of David J. Curtis are asked to call the Mason County Sheriff’s Office at 360-427-9670 Ext 226 or 911.

Photos of Mr. Curtis are included with this release.