Nearly a month after 28-year-old Jedidiah Kowchee was reported missing in Sitka, police and search crews have turned up few leads. Jerry Kowchee, Jedidiah’s father, is still holding out hope that his son will be found safe.
“I know it may seem like it’s remote, but I want to continue to pray that he does come home safe, that we do find him safe and okay,” Kowchee said.
Jedidiah Kowchee was reported missing on December 15, 2023. Security footage from AC Lakeside grocery store showed Kowchee leaving Orion Sporting Goods around 4 p.m. on December 13. Since then, Sitka Search and Rescue and volunteer teams have conducted ground searches of the area. In a January 5 press release, the Sitka Police Department said that they are “actively searching and exploring every avenue possible in an attempt to locate Jedidiah.”
Jerry Kowchee said his son, who has been living with him since fall 2023, enjoys hiking, but that it’s out of character for him to be gone for more than a day.
“It was not like him,” Kowchee said. “Like i said, the only trips that he took were just day trips and he’d come home.”
Kowchee said he’s grateful for the support of the Sitka community and first responders.
“I want to thank everyone that’s been involved with the search for Jed,” Kowchee said. “Sitka Tribe, Search and rescue, the police department, they’ve been doing their due diligence, and I appreciate all their help, all the work that they’ve put into investigating.”
Police have emphasized the need for additional leads from the community to help direct search efforts. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Sitka Police Department at 907-747-3245 or call the anonymous tip line at 907-747-8980.
