FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Aug. 12, 2021
LOCATED: Marteze "Tez" Ward
After tips from community members and a thorough investigation by the Springfield Police Department's Criminal Investigations Unit, Marteze "Tez" Ward was found safe.
Foul play does not appear to be a factor in the case.
Thank you to the community and partner law enforcement agencies for your diligent efforts to assist in the search.
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Update #2 (Aug. 11th):
At this time, based on information collected through our investigation, Springfield detectives believe Marteze "Tez" Ward has left the Springfield area. As more information becomes available, we will continue to update the public.
Thank you to everyone who continues to assist in the search.
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Update #1 (Aug. 11th):
We have received several inquiries from the public into the investigation of missing person Marteze "Tez" Ward. The Springfield Police Department’s investigation into his whereabouts continues.
On the afternoon of Aug. 10th, an extensive search was conducted in the area of Fellows Lake by Springfield detectives with the assistance of the Missouri Department of Conservation, the Greene County Sherriff’s Office, and the Springfield Fire Department.
We have also received inquiries from citizens requesting to form a search party. The area surrounding Fellows Lake stretches several square miles and is heavily wooded. Detectives are currently following up on leads in order to narrow down a possible location of Ward to support the most productive search possible. When that information becomes available, we will send out an update.
Thank you to everyone who continues to assist in the search.
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Original Release (Aug, 10th):
The Springfield Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in locating missing person Marteze "Tez" Ward.
Ward was last reportedly seen on Monday, Aug. 9, 2021, at about 10:30 a.m. Officers believe his last possible location was in the area of Fellows Lake. He is likely to be on foot
Ward is a 32-year-old black male, 5'11" and 180 lbs. He has curly black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing square glasses, a green shirt, and dark grey or green shorts with brown sandals.
Officers are seeking to confirm his well-being. Anyone with information concerning his whereabouts should immediately call 911 or make an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477).
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Case number: 21-28004
Media Contact: PAO Jasmine Bailey
417-864-1786
[email protected]
Release authorized by Lt. Bryan Welch