Burlington Police Search for Missing Local Man
Search teams scoured the Ethan Allen Homestead for 38-year-old Chris Harper who went missing in late 2024.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in Accidents
Burlington police and family members conducted an intensive search at the Ethan Allen Homestead for missing 38-year-old resident Chris Harper. The search focused on the area where the missing man's phone was last pinged.
Why it matters
The search effort aims to locate Harper, who has been missing since leaving his North End home in November 2024. His family is currently offering a $5,000 reward for any information leading to his location.
A private investigator is currently assigned to the case. Authorities deployed two drones over the Winooski River while volunteers organized into two groups to search trails and loops on foot.
The players
Chris Harper
The 38-year-old Burlington resident was last seen leaving his home in November 2024.
Burlington Police Department
The municipal law enforcement agency responsible for investigating the disappearance of local residents.
The details
Harper was last seen leaving his North End home in possession of a yellow backpack, a hiking stick, and a long board. The recent search at the Ethan Allen Homestead was prompted by the final ping location of his mobile phone.
Timeline
November 15, 2024: Chris Harper was last seen leaving his North End home.
October 2026: Search party conducted at Ethan Allen Homestead.
Legal Context
The search for Chris Harper follows a pattern set by the 2011 search and rescue protocols for the Winooski River corridor, which prioritize drone surveillance in wetland areas. These methods reflect standard regional approaches to missing persons investigations in difficult terrain.
Residents in the area near the Ethan Allen Homestead and Winooski River may notice continued law enforcement activity as the search continues. Local businesses and neighbors are encouraged to report any sightings of the missing man to aid the ongoing investigation.
The takeaway
Families searching for missing loved ones often employ private investigators to supplement official police efforts. Community members with information are encouraged to come forward to claim the reward and assist in the investigation.
Further reading
Find more updates on ongoing local safety investigations in our Burlington Accidents section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wcax.
