Bedford County, PA – Pennsylvania State Police are offering a $5,000 cash reward for information that helps solve the disappearance of Jeffrey Michael Taurianen, a missing U.S. Army veteran last seen in Bedford County.
According to Pennsylvania State Police Troop G, troopers were dispatched at 4:35 a.m. on April 16, 2022 (Saturday) to 177 Grasshopper Road in New Paris for a report of a missing person. Taurianen, who was 33 years old at the time, had left his residence in an unknown direction and has not been seen since.
Authorities said no clothing description was available during the initial response. Investigators later determined Taurianen may have traveled to or through Altoona, Pittsburgh, Johnstown, or Clearfield, though his exact movements remain unknown.
Police say Taurianen has a history of manic depression and PTSD and had previously expressed suicidal thoughts, increasing concern for his safety. He is also a U.S. Army veteran who served in Special Forces.
Investigators report that Taurianen allegedly destroyed his electronic devices before leaving and later used spoofed phone numbers to contact former employers, making incoherent statements. No tracking data was recovered, and authorities say his current access to electronics is unknown.
Taurianen is described as a Black male, approximately 5 feet 6 inches tall, weighing 110 pounds, with brown eyes and a shaved head. Police say he is highly skilled in technology and may be using that knowledge to avoid detection.
Anyone with information is urged to contact PSP Bedford Station at 814-623-6133, PSP Tips Toll-Free at 1-800-472-8477, or submit tips online at www.p3tips.com. Information may also be submitted anonymously through NAMUS Case MP90667.
Police emphasize that the reward is funded through asset forfeiture funds, not taxpayers.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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