Tract Near Missing Man's Home Still Focus of Search

A Morris County Prosecutor's Office official said Wednesday there's no new information in the search for David Bird, and investigators still are focused on the same area around Bird's home in the Millington section of Long Hill.

First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas Zelante said the physical portion of the search was suspended during Tuesday's snowstorm, and police planned to continue searching the area as soon as conditions allowed.

He said authorities were following up on investigatory leads during the storm.

Wednesday marks the 12th day of the search since the 55-year-old Wall Street Journal reporter was reported missing Jan. 11. He told his family he was going for a walk and did not return, police have said.

Bird, a married father of two children, reportedly headed to the trails of the Hicks Tract where he was known to walk. Police have said he disappeared without a trace, and without giving any indication of having a reason to disappear.

Bird is described as 55 years old, 200 pounds, and 6 feet, 1-inch tall, and was wearing a red jacket, blue jeans, sneakers and glasses. He received a liver transplant nine years ago and could become disoriented without taking medication related to the transplant, police have said.

A spokesperson for Bird's family said Wednesday they are working hard to remain positive, and they continue to ask the public and residents in the area to look out for Bird and call the Long Hill Police Department if they have any leads.

Police have asked residents to be vigilant when checking their property for signs of unusual disturbances. Anyone with information can call the Long Hill Township Police Department at 908-647-1800, Option 1, Extension 236.