WP police still searching for missing man

Posted Saturday, August 14, 2021 4:20 pm

Darren Bunnell, 54, of West Point last seen June 12 north of town

BY CHUCK VANDENBERG
PCC EDITOR

WEST POINT - Local law enforcement officials are still searching for a missing West Point man.

West Point Police Chief Brad Roberts said Saturday that efforts are continuing in trying to locate Darren E. Bunnell, 54, of West Point, who was last seen on June 12 by a mail delivery worker walking on the 240th Avenue just north of West Point.

"We've searched rivers, fields, used drones and sonar in boats. We just can't find him," Roberts said. "We're continuing to work with other agencies and have worked with Iowa Department of Natural Resources and the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigations to try and locate him.

"I would like to get some closure for his family."

According to a release from Roberts issued in July, a missing person’s report was filed on June 15, by family members who live near Ottumwa.

Bunnell was last seen on June 12^th, 2021 at approximately 7 p.m., after his father had dropped him off at his residence. On June 14^th, a postal worker sighted Bunnell walking north on 240^th Avenue, which is north of 7th Street and 160th Street on the town's northeast side.

Roberts said he still does not suspect any foul play, but has not heard any leads on Bunnell's whereabouts since the postal worker sighting.

"We're still doing foot patrols and are continuing to search that area north of West Point," Roberts said. "When he was first listed as missing, the (Skunk) river was pretty fast, but we went in when the water dropped and used some side sonar - and just nothing.

"We're not giving up, we're just looking for any leads or any information anyone may have."

Bunnell is known to have taken daily medication for mental health issues and may have gotten disoriented and lost his way.

Bunnell is described as a white male, 5’08” tall, and approx. 180 pounds. He was last seen wearing blue jeans, t-shirt, eyeglasses, and was unshaven.

Anyone that has seen or know the whereabouts of Bunnell, or has information, are encouraged to contact the West Point Police Dept., or the Lee County Sheriff’s Office 319-372-1152.