DAVE MACDONALD, MUFON INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, LEAVES A LEGACY IN WORLD UFOLOGY
By Fernanda Pires
The international ufological community received with profound sadness the news of the passing of Dave MacDonald, International Executive Director of MUFON (Mutual UFO Network), in the early morning hours of June 7, 2026, following a series of respiratory complications associated with pneumonia.
The news was officially confirmed by MUFON in a statement issued on June 8, in which the organization expressed deep sorrow over the loss of one of its most important leaders and one of the most respected voices in global UFO and UAP research.
The official “For Immediate Release” statement announcing Dave MacDonald’s passing was published on MUFON’s official Mutual UFO Network page by Ron James, Media Relations Director of MUFON, formally communicating the news to members, investigators, researchers, and the broader public.
Recognized as one of the most respected figures in the field of Ufology worldwide, Dave MacDonald leaves behind a legacy of decades of dedication, leadership, and commitment to the serious study of unidentified aerial phenomena. His journey was marked by professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering effort to strengthen MUFON as one of the world’s leading UFO investigative organizations.
A longtime leader within the organization, Dave helped guide MUFON through important chapters of its modern history, particularly during a period in which the UAP subject entered mainstream public discussion, congressional hearings in the United States, national security debates, and renewed scientific interest in the phenomenon.
Dave first took the helm of MUFON in 2012, helping guide the organization’s operations and public mission. He later returned to the role of Executive Director, continuing his work during a transformative era for both the organization and the broader field of ufological research on an international level.
Throughout his leadership, Dave played a fundamental role in the growth and modernization of the institution, promoting initiatives focused on rigorous case investigations, the advancement of investigator training, and the strengthening of MUFON’s international network. His leadership further solidified MUFON’s role as a global reference in the study of UFO phenomena, always guided by investigative methodology, evidence-based analysis, and the responsible pursuit of truth.
A professional pilot, businessman, former county peace officer, and founder of Flamingo Air, Dave MacDonald brought to MUFON a unique combination of aviation expertise, investigative discipline, organizational experience, and a deep personal passion for Ufology. Over the years, he also served in several important leadership positions within the organization, including Executive Director Emeritus and STAR Team Director.
More than an executive, Dave MacDonald was widely recognized for his respectful, approachable, and deeply human nature. Colleagues, directors, investigators, and MUFON members around the world remember his generosity, wisdom, and constant willingness to support those dedicated to understanding still unexplained phenomena.
In an official statement, Debbie Ziegelmeier, MUFON Executive Vice President and longtime board member, reflected on Dave’s importance to the organization:
“Dave MacDonald devoted a significant part of his life to MUFON and to the serious study of UFOs and UAPs. He believed in field investigation, witness testimony, data collection, and public education. Most of all, he believed in the people of MUFON. His loss will be deeply felt throughout the organization and the broader UAP community.”
Following Dave MacDonald’s passing, Debbie Ziegelmeier will serve as Acting Executive Director, helping ensure continuity for MUFON’s operations, including support for State Directors, Field Investigators, volunteers, researchers, members, and the broader public, while the organization honors the life and legacy of its leader.
His absence represents a profound loss not only within MUFON, but throughout the international community dedicated to the study of UFOs and UAPs. To many, Dave was an inspiration, a mentor, and a true friend whose passion for Ufology helped connect people from different countries around a shared purpose: to investigate, with seriousness, responsibility, and respect, the mysteries that continue to challenge our understanding.
During this time of mourning, MUFON extends its deepest condolences to Dave’s wife, Sharon MacDonald, his family, friends, colleagues, and all those who had the privilege of walking alongside him throughout his journey. The organization also acknowledged the countless State Directors, Field Investigators, board members, volunteers, researchers, and members who shared in Dave’s mission and friendship over the years.
Additional details regarding memorial arrangements will be shared by the organization when appropriate.
Founded in 1969, MUFON remains dedicated to the scientific study of UFOs and UAPs for the benefit of humanity. In honoring the life and service of Dave MacDonald, the organization reaffirmed its commitment to continuing the work to which he dedicated himself so passionately: collecting reports, investigating cases, preserving data, educating the public, and pursuing the truth with integrity.
His legacy will live on through the work he helped build, the lives he impacted, and MUFON’s continued commitment to the serious and responsible investigation of unidentified aerial phenomena.
Dave MacDonald will never be forgotten. His name will forever remain engraved in the history of world Ufology.
Fernanda Pires
Director of International Investigations – MUFON