'Let's Bring Him Home': Community Unites in Search for Missing Calhoun County Man with Epilepsy

In a heartfelt display of community solidarity, residents of Marshall, Michigan, have come together to search for Dale Jacob Higley, a 47-year-old man who has been missing since Sunday afternoon.

Higley, who has epilepsy, was last seen around 3:00 p.m. on September 7, walking barefoot near 15 1/2 Mile Road and J Drive South in Fredonia Township.

He was possibly wearing blue jeans and an orange t-shirt with a tree service logo on the back.

Family members are deeply concerned, noting that it's uncharacteristic for him to leave without informing anyone.

His cousin, Jodie Barroso, emphasized, "It's just uncommon for him to take off like that; he would never leave his daughter, she means the world to him."

On Thursday, a diverse group of volunteers, including individuals from out of state, organized a search party.

They meticulously combed through cornfields, bean fields, grasslands, swamps, and wetlands along 15 1/2 Mile Road, determined to find any trace of Higley.

One volunteer, Kodey Brashares, expressed his motivation: "I personally haven't met Dale, but I hear a lot of good about him, and I'd want it done for me if I was out there."

The search efforts have been extensive.

A Michigan State Police helicopter conducted aerial sweeps on Sunday, but unfortunately, no leads were found.

By Monday afternoon, the focus shifted to the area around Lyon Lake, approximately three miles from where Higley was last seen.

Authorities are urging local residents to review their home security systems, doorbell cameras, and trail cameras for any potential sightings.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Sergeant Joel Flees at 269-781-0880.

As the search continues, the community remains hopeful.

Brashares added, "It's hard to keep going, but we ain't gonna stop till we find him."

Higley's family is profoundly grateful for the outpouring of support.

His cousin, Perry Higley, conveyed their appreciation: "There are a lot of volunteers; thank you to all of them. Let's get him home."

The collective determination of Marshall's residents underscores the strength and compassion of the community in times of crisis.