VICENZA, Italy — The Air Force has put out an all-points bulletin for a missing airman last seen at a friend’s house on Saturday night.

Update: Italian police suspend search for Aviano airman Staff Sgt. Halex Hale, assigned to the 31st Fighter Wing at Aviano Air Base, was last seen at a friend’s house in Sacile, a small town near the base where Hale also lives, according to base authorities.

Officials declined to speculate what might have happened to Hale. But “based on where the search is occurring, law enforcement officials believe he’s still in the area,” said Capt. Michael Hertzog II, a 31st Fighter Wing spokesman. “The APB is being put out in the hope that if he isn’t in the area, he’ll still be identified.”

Hertzog said the search for Hale had expanded since Saturday. First, only Hale’s friends were looking for him, then Italian police were informed and mounted a search, including the participation of volunteers. The Air Force got involved on Thursday, Hertzog said.

Hertzog declined to discuss cell phone records or other evidence that could explain what had happened. He also declined to say whether Hale is married, how old he is or whether he was experiencing any personal difficulties.

Hertzog said area hospitals had been canvassed.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Aviano Air Base at (+39) 0434-30-7200.

montgomery.nancy@stripes.com