Searches ongoing for missing elderly man with dementia seen walking near loch

Searches are ongoing for an elderly man with dementia who was last seen walking near a loch in Kilconquhar two days ago.

John Wils was last seen by his family around 12.35pm on Tuesday.

The 82-year-old was then seen around 2.55pm walking south along the B941. He was later seen on a path near Kilconquhar Loch walking southbound.

He is described as 5ft 11 tall, of slim build, with grey/white hair, clean-shaven, and wearing glasses. He was last seen wearing a red checked shirt, blue jeans and brown shoes.

Police are urging residents to check their gardens, garages, sheds and outbuildings in case John has sought shelter.

Specially search-trained officers have also been drafted in to help with the search.

Chief inspector Kieran Marsh said: “Extensive enquiries, including reviewing CCTV and searches of the area, are ongoing.

“John lives with dementia, and concerns for him are increasing. We are continuing to appeal to anyone who may have seen him to contact us.

“I would urge anyone in the area with private CCTV, doorbell, or dash-cam footage, to review this and come forward if anything has been captured which could assist our enquiries.

“I would also appeal to residents in the area to check their gardens, garages, sheds and outbuildings in case John has sought shelter.

“We are utilising all available resources, including specialist search-trained officers, to search for John. There continues to be a police presence in the area, and I would encourage anyone with any information to come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 3284 of September 15, 2026.