Search Planned Saturday for a Maine Man Missing Since 2017

The search for a Hancock County man who went missing in 2017 will be re-examined this weekend with a ground search.

Eastbrook, Maine, Man Went Missing in 2017

Russell Burnett of Franklin was 47 years old when he was reported missing on February 23, 2017.

According to the Maine Department of Public Safety, Burnett was last seen on or about February 21, 2017, near his home at 323 Eastbrook Road in Franklin.

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It's believed that he left his residence on foot, accompanied by his dog.

Searches Since 2017 Have Turned Up No Sign of a Missing Hancock County, Maine Man

Officials say that, due to the complexity of the investigation, the Hancock County Sheriff's Office agreed to allow the Maine State Police Major Crimes Unit to take the lead in August 2017.

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When Burnett went missing, searches of the surrounding property and residence were conducted, but with no success.

Sadly, over nearly 10 years, Russell Burnett has never been found.

Searches to Be Conducted Saturday for Maine Man Missing for Nearly a Decade

On Saturday, May 2, 2026, the Maine Warden Service will conduct a ground search in the town of Eastbrook.

Public Safety Spokesperson Shannon Moss says residents should not be alarmed, as there is no known risk to the public.

These types of searches, in areas considered high-probability in missing person cases, are considered routine.

The public is not being asked to assist in this search.

Anyone with information related to the disappearance of Russell Burnett is asked to contact Maine State Police Detective Dana Austin at 207-973-3700, Extension 9.

We'll update this story when more details become available.