Sheriff's Deputies Search For Missing Merritt Island Man

MERRITT ISLAND, Florida -- Brevard County Sheriff's deputies are currently searching for a missing Merritt Island man last seen this afternoon.

UPDATE: Mr. Welling has returned to his residence and is well.  The previously issued Silver Alert has been cancelled.

78 year-old Darrell William Welling departed his Grove Street residence en route to a doctor appointment on Merritt Island at approximately 1:15 pm this afternoon.   He did not arrive for that appointment and has not been in contact with his family.  

Investigators have determined that Mr. Welling purchased gasoline at BJ’s Wholesale Club around 1:22 pm, but there have been no sightings of him since that time.

Welling is not in possession of a cellular phone and may have medical conditions that are affecting his cognitive abilities.   

He is described as 5’10” tall, 190 lbs. with grey hair and blue eyes.   

He departed his residence wearing beige shorts, white tennis shoes, and an unknown colored t-shirt.

Welling is driving a white, 2007 Chevrolet Impala bearing Florida license plate 640LVJ.

The photograph attached was taken this past Saturday and accurately depicts Welling’s current physical appearance.

A statewide Silver Alert had been issued for Welling and his vehicle.  Any members of the public who observe Mr. Welling or his vehicle are asked to contact the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office at (321) 633-7162.