The search in Alma for Willie Frank Wooden, who was reported missing in Alma recently, has taken a grim turn. Authorities have said they suspect foul play in his disappearance. This week, they showed just how certain they are that something bad likely happened to Mr. Wooden.
On June 8, local public safety personnel, city and county workers, and Department of Corrections employees/inmates drained a local pond to determine if Willie Frank Wooden was located within the pond. Efforts began Wednesday to drain the pond, but rain which began during the day and lingered into the night hindered the draining of the pond. DNR and local law enforcement did drag the inner perimeter of the pond in its entirety but did not discover Mr. Wooden or any items of concern. Law enforcement has no reason to believe Mr. Wooden is located in the pond; but due to the location of the pond, and the fact the pond exists in a heavily traveled area, law enforcement received permission from the owner to drain the pond for certainty.
Throughout the week, public safety personnel have scoured Alma, searching vacant and abandoned buildings, as well as wooded areas. They have found no evidence to provide the location of Mr. Wooden. If anyone has any information which can lead to the location of Mr. Wooden, please contact the Alma Police Department at 912-632-8751. Local family members have offered a reward for information leading to the location of Mr. Wooden. Local citizens and business owners have further pledged funds in conjunction with the reward offered by family.
