Missing man may have been abducted, deputies say
QUINLAN, Texas - The search is intensifying for a retired Dallas firefighter who went missing last week and may be in danger.
Michael Chambers, 70, disappeared Friday from his Hunt County home in Quinlan, about 40 miles east of Dallas.
Deputies said after an initial investigation, they believe he may have been taken against his will after they found blood in his shop outside his home. The Texas Rangers and the FBI are now involved in the search.
Chambers was last seen March 10 entering and then leaving the Quinlan Walmart alone. Surveillance video shows Chambers entering the store, paying for a couple items, walking out to his truck and driving away.
Investigators say he was known to carry money but do not believe he was followed. Chambers returned home before noon and was not seen again.
Deputies say whatever happened to him most likely happened between noon and 3 p.m. that Friday. His truck was at the house along with his keys and wallet. But police say Chambers and his cell phone simply disappeared.
Hunt County Sheriff Randy Meeks says Chambers and his family have been close friends for many years.
“I was his Sunday school teacher for several years,” the sheriff said. “I’ve never known a more devout Christian man than Michael Chambers. I trust him with my life.”
“This is absolutely unlike him. He’s not a person that just disappears,” said Cherri Hanes, Chambers’ daughter. “Someone knows something, and we plead and entreat you if that person is here, call the Hunt County Sheriff’s Department.”
Bob Clark has known Chambers for four years as members of 'Texas Most Wanted Car Club.' Clark and other club members have been at Chambers' home over the last few days to offer whatever solace they can.
"We miss him and want him to come home," Clark said.
Chambers is described as being 6 feet 3 inches with balding gray hair. He does not have any known medical or mental conditions.
Anyone with information is asked to call 911 or the Hunt County Sheriff’s Office at 903-453-6838.