Gary Graybill

RICHFIELD — After three days of uncertainty, the search for missing Richfield resident Gary Graybill ended Wednesday morning when he was found alive in West Perry Township. Graybill, 69, had been missing since Monday, prompting an urgent search by local fire companies, law enforcement, and scores of community volunteers.

Graybill was last seen around 9:30 a.m. Monday near Heister Valley Road in Snyder County. A neighbor discovered his lawnmower unoccupied, which triggered the initial response from the Pennsylvania State Police at Selinsgrove. Concerns grew quickly because Graybill has Parkinson’s disease, cognitive impairment, and mobility issues, placing him at increased risk.

Throughout Monday and into the following days, teams from the Richfield Fire Company and surrounding agencies, along with many residents, searched fields, woods, and rural terrain. The Richfield Fire Company used social media to rally support, calling for community members to join a coordinated effort starting at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday.

Volunteers were asked to meet at the fire hall and be prepared to walk through thick woods; safety vests or hunting hats were recommended. The appeal drew individuals, church groups, and local businesses eager to help the family and their neighbor in need.

State police, aided by volunteers, expanded the search grid. Leads were tracked, tips were followed up on, and the effort drew together nearly every segment of the small community. For days, the outcome was uncertain. As of Wednesday morning, the Richfield Fire Company reported it had no new updates to share, but the search continued.

The breakthrough came later that day. In an update released by the Pennsylvania State Police, officials confirmed Graybill was located in West Perry Township on Aug. 21 and was being medically evaluated at a local hospital.

His condition and the circumstances of his discovery were not immediately available, but authorities expressed relief he had been found alive.

“In the interest of transparency, it is the policy of PSP to disseminate information regarding incidents which are likely to generate significant interest among the public and media in a timely manner,” the release stated.