Family members and volunteers are expanding their search for an Oregon man who is missing in Juneau.
Joseph Clayton, who goes by Joe, has been missing since he left for a hike last Friday. His keys, backpack and binoculars were found Tuesday in a wooded area off Mendenhall Loop Road, commonly known as Back Loop, between the University of Alaska Southeast main entrance and the Auke Bay roundabout.
Clayton’s niece, Adreann Randle, says SEADOGS, or Southeast Alaska Dogs Organized for Ground Search, were called to the area Tuesday. But she says the dogs were unable to find Clayton’s scent.
She says professional searchers have since advised the family to start searching outside of the Auke Lake area. She says they got a report of someone matching her uncle’s description trying to hitchhike. It’s possible he may have walked or gotten a ride elsewhere.
Randle says they’re putting up fliers and canvassing places from downtown Juneau and Sandy Beach in Douglas to Eagle Beach, out-the-road. That includes campgrounds, trailheads and places where homeless residents may gather.
Clayton is a 48-year-old, white male, about 6 feet 2 inches tall and 220 pounds. He was last seen wearing a T-shirt and jeans.
If anyone spots someone who they believe is Clayton, Juneau police ask that they be called right away at 586-0600 and stay within eyesight until an officer can arrive and verify his identity.
Clayton has a form of anxiety and may try to retreat if someone rushes up to help him.
This story has been updated with information about where the family is searching and what people should do if they see Joseph Clayton.
