DOUGLAS, Ga. (WALB) - A South Georgia family is asking for the public’s help as they search for a missing U.S. Navy veteran who was last seen in Douglas earlier this year.

According to family members, Wayne “Andrew” Taylor, 41, was last seen in Douglas in April 2026. His sister, Katrina Johnson Pope, says the family has been desperately trying to locate him and hopes increased awareness could help bring answers.

“After serving in the United States Navy, Andrew returned home carrying a lot of unresolved grief and trauma,” Pope shared in a statement to WALB. “Since then, there have been periods of instability, treatment admissions, and relapse.”

Pope says her brother has struggled with mental health issues and periods of homelessness over the years. She says despite efforts from loved ones and VA-related support services, Taylor has struggled to maintain long-term treatment.

The Douglas Police Department confirmed a missing person report was filed on May 27, 2026. According to the incident report, family members told officers they had not seen or heard from Taylor in approximately two months.

The report states Taylor was known to stay in wooded areas behind a doctor’s office in Douglas because he was homeless. Family also told investigators Taylor does not own a phone and had gone missing before, but never for this long.

Police advised the family Taylor would be entered into the Georgia Crime Information Center as a missing person.

Now, Pope says the family is simply hoping someone may recognize him or come forward with information.

“We are simply hoping for awareness and any information regarding his whereabouts,” Pope said. “If anyone has seen him or has information, please contact law enforcement.”

Anyone with information regarding Wayne “Andrew” Taylor’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Douglas Police Department (912) 384-2222 or the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office at 912-384-4227.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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