Search for Missing Fayetteville Retired Green Beret and Methodist University Student Intensifies

Missing Green Beret Clinton Bonnell

The search for Clinton “Clint” Bonnell, a 50-year-old retired Green Beret and student at Methodist University, has grown more urgent as he remains missing since January 27, 2025. Bonnell was last seen around 5:45 p.m. in the Gray’s Creek area of Cumberland County, North Carolina, after visiting the Fit4Life gym on Owen Drive. He then attended study sessions at Methodist University from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. that evening.

According to the Fayetteville Observer, Bonnell’s absence the following day, January 28, was a cause for concern, as it was unusual for him to miss classes. As a dedicated student in the demanding physician assistant program, his commitment to attending classes was well-known among his peers and instructors.

His family, including his sister, Stefanie Firkins, has expressed growing worry as his phone has remained inactive since January 28. Despite extensive search efforts by local authorities and volunteers, Bonnell’s whereabouts remain unknown.

The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office has provided a description of Bonnell: He stands 6 feet tall, weighs 195 pounds, and has brown hair and brown eyes. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a plaid button-up shirt, a black hoodie, and brown pants.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about Bonnell’s location or who may have seen him to contact Detective Sergeant J. McLeod at (910) 677-5548 or dial 911.