Authorities concerned for safety of missing Wadena man Samuel Waln, after the 30-year-old vanished under mysterious circumstances over the weekend, prompting an urgent public appeal and multi-agency search effort across central Minnesota.
Waln was last seen on Saturday traveling eastbound on Highway 10 in the city of Wadena, driving a white 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee with Minnesota license plates SCV975. According to the Wadena County Sheriff’s Office, he was wearing a green long-sleeved shirt, dark pants, a gray baseball cap, and white Nike tennis shoes at the time of his disappearance.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension issued an alert stating that authorities are “deeply concerned for Samuel’s safety,” and urged anyone with information to contact the Wadena County Sheriff’s Office at 218-631-7600 or dial 911.
Waln’s sudden disappearance has shaken the small community of Wadena, where he is known as a quiet, hardworking individual. Friends and family say he had no known enemies and was not involved in any disputes. His vehicle has not been located, and there have been no confirmed sightings since Saturday morning.
Local law enforcement, supported by state agencies, has launched a coordinated search operation, combing nearby woods, highways, and rural properties. Drones and K-9 units have been deployed, and volunteers have joined the effort, distributing flyers and checking surveillance footage from nearby businesses.
Sheriff Michael Carrington stated that foul play has not been ruled out, but investigators are keeping all possibilities open. “We are treating this as a high-priority missing person case,” he said. “Time is critical, and we’re asking the public to remain vigilant and report anything unusual.”
The case has drawn attention beyond Wadena County, with social media users sharing Waln’s photo and vehicle details across platforms. The hashtag #FindSamuelWaln has gained traction, and several Minnesota-based influencers have amplified the call for help.
Waln’s family released a statement expressing gratitude for the community’s support and pleading for his safe return. “Samuel is loved deeply. We are devastated and praying for answers. If anyone knows anything, please come forward,” the statement read.
Authorities are also reviewing Waln’s digital footprint, including phone records and social media activity, to trace his last known communications. So far, no suspicious activity has been detected, but investigators remain hopeful that a breakthrough could come from the public.
This is not the first time Wadena has faced a missing person case, but officials say the scale and urgency of this search are unprecedented. The sheriff’s office has increased patrols and is working closely with neighboring counties to expand the search radius.
As the investigation continues, residents are being urged to check their properties, trail cameras, and outbuildings for any signs of Waln or his vehicle. The community has also organized a candlelight vigil scheduled for Thursday evening at Sunnybrook Park to show solidarity and support for the family.
