Crime & Safety
Davidson County, NC FBI Joins 3-Day Search for Man Missing Since 2000
Lexington, NC – A major search involving the FBI, state investigators and dozens of law enforcement personnel is underway in Davidson County this week as authorities revisit the disappearance of a man
By Sophie Caldwell · 2026-10-27T18:33:59.986Z
Lexington, NC – A major search involving the FBI, state investigators and dozens of law enforcement personnel is underway in Davidson County this week as authorities revisit the disappearance of a man who vanished more than 26 years ago.
According to the Davidson County Sheriff 's Office, approximately 45 law enforcement personnel and four K9 units are participating in a three day search running from Monday, Oct. 26, through Wednesday, Oct. 28.
The operation focuses on the disappearance of William Mark Alley, who was 33 when he went missing Feb. 2, 2000.
Investigators said the search follows a review of the case file that identified an area that had not previously received a thorough examination.
The effort is being coordinated by the sheriff's Cold Case Team, with assistance from the FBI, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, Davidson County Emergency Management and Davidson County Fire Marshal's Office.
Disappearance Dates Back to 2000
At the time of his disappearance, Alley served as director of the Davidson County Museum of Art.
According to investigators, Alley was confronted by co workers about approximately $14,750 in missing funds on the day he vanished.
He resigned from his position and reportedly left around 11 a.m.
His vehicle and personal belongings were later discovered at his residence on Becks Church Road in Lexington.
Authorities said his wife reported him missing after he failed to pick up their child from a babysitter. Investigators also discovered a note Alley had left inside the residence.
Search Continues Through Wednesday
Sheriff Richie Simmons emphasized the department's commitment to finding answers for Alley's family.
Officials confirmed that no new tips prompted the current search and that no known danger to the public is associated with the operation.
The renewed effort is scheduled to conclude Wednesday, although the broader investigation remains open.
Anyone with information about Alley's disappearance is encouraged to contact Sgt. Kristy Varner at the Davidson County Sheriff's Office at 336 242 2105 .