Search Intensifies For Missing Bellows Falls Man

Authorities in Vermont and New Hampshire have launched a coordinated search effort for a missing 24-year-old man, Phineas Tillman, after evidence suggested he may have entered the Connecticut River near Bellows Falls. The search, which began in the early evening hours of January 11, 2026, has brought together multiple agencies from both states as they race against time and winter conditions to locate Tillman or determine what happened to him.

According to Vermont State Police, the investigation was triggered around 6 p.m. on Sunday, January 11, when they received a call from a concerned party reporting that Tillman had left his home in Bellows Falls. The caller expressed worry for Tillman’s welfare, prompting authorities to respond swiftly. As reported by NBC Boston, police began their inquiry by canvassing the area and soon found themselves drawn to Bridge Street, a location close to the river’s edge that would become central to the unfolding search.

It was at Bridge Street that investigators uncovered evidence indicating Tillman might have entered the Connecticut River. While officials have not elaborated on the precise nature of the evidence, the discovery was significant enough to shift the focus of the search from local streets and neighborhoods to the river, which forms the boundary between Vermont and New Hampshire. The Connecticut River, though a natural border, is technically within New Hampshire’s jurisdiction, meaning that search efforts on the water are being led by New Hampshire teams, working in close coordination with Vermont State Police.

“The initial investigation led police to Bridge Street in Bellows Falls, where further evidence was uncovered which indicated that Tillman might have entered the Connecticut River,” Vermont State Police told NBC Boston. The statement underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the case, even as they note that the disappearance is not considered suspicious at this time.

By the morning of January 12, the search had expanded to include multiple agencies from both states, with Vermont and New Hampshire law enforcement working side by side. According to a report from NBC Boston and corroborated by local news outlets, the search remains ongoing as of January 12, 2026, with teams scouring the riverbanks, deploying boats, and using any available resources to try and locate Tillman. The urgency is palpable, as winter weather and cold river conditions add layers of complexity and risk to the operation.

Bellows Falls, a small village nestled on the Vermont side of the Connecticut River, is no stranger to the challenges posed by its proximity to the waterway. The Connecticut River, which stretches over 400 miles from the Canadian border to Long Island Sound, is known for its strong currents and unpredictable conditions, particularly during winter months. Local residents, while accustomed to seeing the river in all its moods, are nevertheless shaken by the sudden disappearance of a young member of their community.

Authorities have made it clear that, as of January 12, there is no indication of foul play. “The disappearance is not considered suspicious,” Vermont State Police emphasized in their communications. This assessment has provided some measure of reassurance to the community, even as questions linger about what led to Tillman’s disappearance and whether he could still be found safe.

In the meantime, police are urging anyone with information about Tillman’s whereabouts or about the events leading up to his disappearance to come forward. The Vermont State Police have provided a dedicated phone line at the Westminster Barracks—802-722-4600—for tips and information. They have also encouraged the public to submit anonymous tips online through their official website, in the hope that even the smallest detail might help advance the investigation.

The collaborative nature of the search highlights the close ties between Vermont and New Hampshire law enforcement agencies, particularly in regions where natural features like the Connecticut River blur the lines between jurisdictions. With the river lying entirely within New Hampshire’s borders, it falls to New Hampshire teams to lead the water-based search, though Vermont State Police remain deeply involved in the overall investigation and in coordinating efforts on land.

As the search continues, local residents have expressed both concern and support for the Tillman family. Community members have been seen gathering near the riverbanks, some offering help to search teams, others simply standing in quiet solidarity. The sense of community is strong in Bellows Falls, and many have taken to social media to share messages of hope and to encourage anyone with information to assist the authorities.

While the disappearance of Phineas Tillman is not considered suspicious, the mystery surrounding his fate has left many unsettled. Such incidents are rare in this part of Vermont, and the swift, coordinated response from law enforcement reflects both the seriousness of the situation and the commitment to leaving no stone unturned. As one local resident remarked to the press, “This is a small town, and when something like this happens, everyone feels it.”

For now, the focus remains on the search. Police boats continue to patrol the Connecticut River, their lights reflecting off the cold water as crews scan the surface and banks for any sign of Tillman. On land, officers and volunteers move methodically through the area, hoping for a breakthrough. The weather, always a factor in northern New England in January, has so far cooperated, but authorities know that time is of the essence.

Vermont State Police have reiterated their request for public assistance, noting that even seemingly minor observations could be crucial. “Anyone with information on Tillman’s whereabouts or who has information that could assist investigators should call the Westminster Barracks at 802-722-4600 or leave an anonymous tip online,” the department stated. The message is clear: the search will continue, and the community’s help is not only welcome but essential.

As the hours pass and the search expands, the story of Phineas Tillman’s disappearance has drawn attention from across the region, with many hoping for a resolution that brings answers—and, perhaps, relief—to a community on edge. For now, the Connecticut River holds its secrets, and the search for Tillman presses on, fueled by determination, cooperation, and hope.