Missing Bentley University Professor Last Seen on Maine Island
A Maine-based college professor has been reported missing after last being seen on Peaks Island over the weekend.
Wiley Davi, 57, a professor at Bentley University in Waltham, Mass., “was last known to be on Peaks Island,” where they live, on Saturday, Nov. 15, according to a news release from the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
Peaks Island sits in Casco Bay, just off the coast of Portland, the state’s largest city.
According to the university’s website, Davi is a professor of English and Media Studies and holds a doctorate from Tufts University.
Davi’s primary areas of research and interest include diversity, equity and inclusion. Their work has appeared in multiple journals and publications, and they have received numerous awards over the course of their career.
In a statement, Bentley University officials described Davi as a cherished member of the campus community. “Wiley is a longtime and respected professor and a friend to students, faculty and staff on our campus,” the statement read. “Our hearts and minds are with Wiley, their loved ones and the first responders who are leading the search, and we are hoping and praying for Wiley’s safe return.”
Maine Game Wardens said they are coordinating with several agencies as the search continues.
At present, the Maine Warden Service “is concentrating search efforts on the trails and wooded areas of the island,” while Maine Marine Patrol teams are searching the waters surrounding Peaks Island.
Authorities have also asked the public “to stay off the walking trails on Peaks Island… so as not to interfere with searchers.”
Residents in the area have been “encouraged to check any sheds or outbuildings on their property for Davi.”
Davi is described as 5 feet, 7 inches tall, about 155 lbs., with gray hair, according to Maine Game Wardens. “It is unknown what Davi was wearing,” officials added.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Portland Police at 207-874-8479.
