Critically Missing Virginia Man Could Be Headed To DC Area

MARTINSVILLE, VA—A critically missing man from southwest Virginia is believed to be abducted and headed to the DC area, Virginia State Police say.

Police believe John A. Wimbush, 88, of Martinsville is in danger and have issued a critically missing adult alert. He suffers from dementia and other medical conditions.

He was last seen Wednesday, Aug. 1 around 10:28 a.m. and is likely with 59-year-old Valerie Vianna Swinson (or Valerie Vianna Condell), who is described as a black woman around 5 foot 8, 167 pounds and with brown eyes and black/blonde hair. She was last seen wearing a black and white striped tank top.

They are believed to be traveling I-81 north to I-95 north toward Fort Washington, Md., which is the National Harbor area. The car is a black 2017 Nissan Pathfinder with an unknown registration.

According to Martinsville Police, Condell is pretending to be Wimbush’s daughter, but they are not related. Warrents have been issued for abduction with intent to extort money.

Wimbush is described as a black man around 5 foot 6, 176 pounds and with brown eyes and black/gray hair. He was last seen wearing a blue shirt, jacket and blue jeans. He uses a cane to walk.

Call 911, #77 on a cell phone or the Martinsville Police Department at 276-403-5328 with any information.

Image via Virginia State Police