Louisiana Marine Veteran Still Missing After Car Trouble in Texas; Search Efforts Grow

The search continues for Gary Joseph "PJ" Marcantel, Jr., a Louisiana Marine veteran who vanished after experiencing car trouble in a dangerous stretch of the Texas Panhandle. Friends, family, and law enforcement are holding onto hope as the days stretch into weeks without answers.

Marcantel, 38, of Oberlin, LA, was en route to Colorado for a new job when he called 911 on the morning of January 18, reporting a flat tire and dangerously cold temperatures.

His abandoned vehicle was later found along Highway 207, south of Claude, Texas, but there was no sign of him. He has not been heard from since.

Friends and family of Marcantel, along with surrounding areas in the area of Texas where he went missing, have rallied together, praying for his safe return and sharing his story in hopes of generating new leads and awareness. Volunteers, including former Marines who served with Marcantel in Afghanistan, have joined the search alongside the Armstrong County Sheriff’s Office, Texas EquuSearch, and nonprofit groups like Heal-Corp.

“The terrain is extremely dangerous, with steep drop-offs and canyons up to 780 feet deep,” said Armstrong County Judge Adam Ensey. “We appreciate everyone who has helped and continue to encourage anyone with information to come forward.”

Sheriff Melissa Anderson of Armstrong County reassured the public that the search remains active, with efforts including drones, search dogs, and specialized off-road teams. Additionally, law enforcement is analyzing cell phone data for any clues.

Marcantel was last seen at a Harrold, Texas, gas station at 2:28 a.m. on January 18. He is described as 5 feet 9 inches tall, weighing 200 pounds, with a muscular build, bald head, and hazel eyes. He was last seen wearing a white and green baseball cap, a pink Magellan long-sleeve shirt, blue jeans, and white tennis shoes.

As the search continues, the Oberlin community remains hopeful. Anyone with information on Marcantel’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Armstrong County Sheriff’s Office at (806) 553-6933 or Texas EquuSearch at (281) 309-9500.

Marcantel’s family and friends ask for continued prayers and support.