Search for Ian Alexander Shelton Expands Beyond Lake Afton Park

SEDGWICK COUNTY, Kan. — The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office continued its search today for Ian Alexander Shelton, expanding operations beyond Lake Afton Park into surrounding areas.

On Dec. 9, 2025, the Sheriff’s Office led a large-scale coordinated search of approximately 3.5 square miles in and around Lake Afton Park. The operation included resources from the Sedgwick County Emergency Management K-9 Search Team, Sedgwick County Fire District 1, and the Wichita Police Department Mounted Unit. Teams cleared extensive public land during the search. Ian was not located.

Search efforts resumed this morning, Dec. 10, 2025, Sheriff’s Office personnel and the Emergency Management K-9 team deployed from Lake Afton Park and are now searching roadways and adjacent properties southwest of the park property.

The Sheriff’s Office remains committed to locating Ian and providing answers for his family.

Detectives continue to encourage property owners near Lake Afton to review any video footage from Dec. 3 and check property including barns, sheds, garages, or other outbuildings where someone might have sought shelter.

We recognize the strong public interest in this case and are aware that private groups may wish to assist with searching for Ian. These efforts are not discouraged. However, while Lake Afton Park is open to the public, property outside the park is privately owned, and anyone wishing to search beyond county property must have permission from landowners before entering.

The Sheriff’s Office will continue to provide updates as verified information becomes available.

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