HAMPDEN, Maine – The Maine State Police Major Crimes Unit North has taken the lead in the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of 78-year-old Douglas Dunphy of Hampden, who has been missing since January.
The Hampden Police Department began investigating Dunphy’s disappearance on Jan. 15, 2026, and requested assistance from the Maine State Police the following day. Due to the facts and circumstances of the case, Major Crimes Unit North was assigned to assist Hampden police.
Over the following weeks, the Hampden Police Department, Bangor Police Department, Maine Warden Service, and Maine State Police Major Crimes Unit North worked together in an effort to locate Dunphy.
As of Monday, May 4, 2026, Dunphy had not been found.
Due to the complexity of the investigation, Hampden police have agreed to allow the Maine State Police Major Crimes Unit North to take the lead moving forward. Hampden police will continue supporting the investigation as a key partner.
On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, Maine State Police will lead a search on Kennebec Road in Hampden.
Officials said searches of high-probability areas are common in missing-person cases like this one. There is no known risk to the public, and the presence of searchers should not cause alarm.
Search efforts are being coordinated and conducted by law enforcement, and the public is not being asked to assist.
Future media updates are expected as more information becomes available.
Anyone with relevant information related to Dunphy’s disappearance is asked to call 207-973-3700, ext. 9, and ask to speak with Det. Jennifer Fiske.
Information may also be submitted to the Major Crimes Unit North through the state’s online tip portal.
