JOYCE — The Clallam County Sheriff’s Office continued on Thursday its investigation into the whereabouts of Kevin Richter of Joyce but ended the active search for him.
After Wednesday’s debriefing of some 30 searchers — all friends of the 32-year old man — “we felt, in consultation with friends and family, that all areas had been searched to our satisfaction at this time,” said Chief Criminal Deputy Brian King on Thursday afternoon.
Deputies have issued search warrants to enable them to check Richter’s bank transaction records to see if there has been activity since he was reported missing, King has said.
“We know his history prior,” to his being reported missing, “but not since,” King has said.
“If there has been activity since, then we would know he’s OK.”
A family friend reported Richter missing at about 5:30 p.m. Feb. 10, saying he had been despondent when he left his home near Crescent Beach Road.
He also is suspected to have been in possession of a handgun; he is not believed to be a danger to others, King has said.
Friends, family and deputies have been searching the area near his home.
His cell phone and bike were found by a family member Friday morning, King said.
Because of his banking activity and search of websites devoted to the topic of disappearing, it is suspected that he wanted to leave and not be found, according to King.
A skilled outdoorsman, Richter is believed to have been wearing a camouflage sweatshirt and Carhartt blue jeans when he left his home.
He is described as standing 5 feet, 8 inches tall and weighing about 180 pounds. He has blue eyes, brown hair and a beard.
The situation and uncertainties prevented the deputies from using anyone but friends, family and law enforcement officers in the search, according to King.
Anyone with information as to Richter’s whereabouts is asked to call sheriff’s dispatchers at 360-417-2459.
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Executive Editor Leah Leach can be reached at 360-417-3530 or at lleach@peninsuladailynews.com.
