Barry Raper Missing Person Case

Nov 15, 2024

Nov 15, 2024

Barry

Raper

53

52

70 inches

71 inches

200 lbs

White / Caucasian

Male

On November 11, 2024, the community of Athens, Tennessee, was filled with concern when 52-year-old Barry R. Raper was reported missing. He had left his home with the intention of going to Frye Street in Athens but never arrived at his destination. The situation grew more alarming when he sent a text message indicating that he was stuck in the nearby town of Sweetwater and was attempting to find a way back home. This was the last known communication from him, and as time passed with no further contact, his family and local authorities became increasingly worried about his safety and whereabouts. The initial report was filed with the Athens Police Department two days after he was last heard from, officially beginning the investigation into his disappearance. Barry Raper is described as a white male, standing between 5 feet 10 inches and 5 feet 11 inches tall, and weighing around 200 pounds. He has brown hair cut in a military-style high and tight, hazel eyes, and some grayish facial hair. At the time he went missing, he was believed to be wearing a distinctive blue Piggly Wiggly shirt and longer green shorts. These details were circulated in hopes that someone might recognize him and provide information that could help locate him. The Athens Police Department took charge of the case, designated as 2024-15381, and began the process of searching for Mr. Raper and following up on any potential leads that emerged from his last known activities and communications. After a period of uncertainty and investigation, the search for Barry Raper came to a positive conclusion. Authorities were able to locate him, and he was found to be alive. While the news of his safe recovery brought immense relief to his loved ones and the concerned community, the specific details surrounding how and where he was found have not been publicly disclosed. The exact date of his recovery also remains unclear. The primary focus for his family was his safe return. The case, which began with a concerning and abrupt loss of contact, was officially closed by the Athens Police Department, shifting from an active missing person investigation to a resolved case with a fortunate outcome.

Nov 11, 2024

Athens

Tennessee

McMinn County

Athens

No

156444

Athens Police Department

Athens

Tennessee

McMinn County

37303

Blake Witt

Lieutenant

815 North Jackson Street, Tennessee

4237442730

Local

Law Enforcement

https://www.cityofathenstn.com/team_athens/city_departments/police/index.php

2024-15381

2024-11-13

Athens Police Department

Brown

Hazel

Hazel

Yes

06/28/2026