Today various law enforcement agencies searched through the woods of Kennedy Reservation in Union looking for any evidence that could lead to the whereabouts of missing Elizabeth resident and former East Orange cop.
Police are asking for the public’s help in locating 79-year-old man lreported missing on January 29 from his Elizabeth apartment.
Edward Purcell, 79, who was diagnosed with dementia and suffers from seizures was last been seen over two weeks ago, by the superintendent of his Cherry Street apartment building.
According to police, the last cell phone activity was picked up on Jan. 27 by a cell tower on Floral Avenue. Authorities have focused the search in a quarter-mile radius that stretches from Kean University, Magie Avenue and the Kennedy Reservation.
Over 50 officer from area municipalities searched the wooded area today. Authorities hoped to have the assistance of a helicopter but because of the snow-covered grounds, it’s difficult for a clear aerial view. The cold temperatures have not permitted the use of heat-seeking infrared technology, police added.
Purcell is described as a white man of medium build, 5'11 tall and weighs approximately 175 pounds. He has brown eyes and gray hair.
If you have any information regarding Purcell's location please call 911 or contact the Elizabeth Police Department detective bureau at 908-558-2050 and reference case #15-1724.