Crime Solvers Central
CSC
246 Cases Solved. Advancing justice for missing persons, unsolved homicides, unidentified and unclaimed remains.
Crime Solvers Central Cases Blog
BLOG HOME
  • 0 Vanished in Silicon Shadows: The Unsolved Mystery of Molly Franquemont

    0.00 of 0 votes

    A Life Interrupted in SunnyvaleOn March 9, 2013, 37-year-old Molly Anne Franquemont vanished from Sunnyvale, California. Standing 5'3" and weighing 110 pounds, Molly was known for her brown hair, brown eyes, and a distinctive tattoo of an Asian bird on her hip. Her sudden disappearance left her family and friends in distress, as she had not been heard from since a phone call on March 12, 2013. A Troubled RelationshipIn January 2013, Molly moved in with her boyfriend, Glen Griggs, after being evicted from her own apartment. Griggs claimed that Molly was working in Redwood City and later stated she had moved to Southern California, visiting him weekly. However, surveillance revealed these statements were false. Molly had expressed fear of Griggs to friends, describing his behavior as erratic and indicating she feared he would kill her. A Pattern of SuspicionGriggs was not only the prime suspect in Molly's disappearance but also linked to the deaths of three other women he had dated between 2003 and 2006. Each of these women died under suspicious circumstances involving high levels of alcohol, initially deemed accidental. It wasn't until after the third death that investigators began to suspect foul play. A Fatal ConfrontationOn June 5, 2014, police attempted to serve a search warrant at Griggs' home in connection with Molly's case. Griggs brandished a BB gun at officers, refusing to drop the weapon. Fearing for their safety, officers shot Griggs, who later died from his injuries. An Ongoing MysteryDespite Griggs' death, Molly's body has never been found. Authorities continue to investigate, focusing on locating her remains to provide closure for her family. The case remains open, with the hope that new information may eventually lead to answers. Remembering MollyMolly Franquemont's disappearance is a stark reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and the importance of thorough investigations. Her case continues to be a subject of public interest, with online communities and law enforcement agencies keeping her memory alive in the pursuit of justice. Seeking Closure The Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety urges anyone with information about Molly's disappearance to come forward. Even the smallest detail could be crucial in solving this enduring mystery and bringing peace to those who knew and loved Molly.

  • 0 Vanished in Plain Sight: The Unsolved Disappearance of Keandre Collins in Baton Rouge

    0.00 of 0 votes

    A Life Interrupted: Who Was Keandre Collins?Keandre Collins, a 25-year-old father from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was known for his dedication to his family. He was actively involved in his children's lives, ensuring they were taken to school and cared for daily. His commitment extended to his grandmother, Lillie May Varnado, whom he regularly checked on. The Day He Disappeared: December 29, 2012On December 29, 2012, Keandre was last seen in the 10000 block of Avenue E in north Baton Rouge. Witnesses reported seeing him conversing with someone near a local grocery store before entering a late-model black SUV. He was wearing a light brown or khaki jacket, a red shirt, and black jeans at the time. Distinctive Features and IdentifiersKeandre stood 6 feet tall and weighed approximately 145 pounds. He had black hair styled in a low Afro and brown eyes. Notably, he had several tattoos: "SELF" on the fingers of his right hand, "PAID" on the fingers of his left hand, a prescription pill bottle on the back of one hand, and "Field Town" on one wrist. A mole was also present on the right side of his upper lip. The Investigation: Limited Leads and Ongoing EffortsThe Baton Rouge Police Department initiated an investigation into Keandre's disappearance, but progress has been minimal. The case is classified as endangered missing, and while foul play has not been ruled out, there have been no significant developments. Family's Plea for InformationKeandre's mother, Haittia Collins, has expressed profound frustration over the lack of information and community support. She has highlighted the emotional toll on the family, emphasizing the need for closure. Community Involvement: Crime Stoppers and Public AppealsIn an effort to generate leads, Crime Stoppers has featured Keandre's case, urging anyone with information to come forward. Despite these efforts, the case remains unsolved, and the family continues to seek answers. The Broader Context: Missing Persons in Baton RougeKeandre's disappearance is one of several unresolved missing persons cases in Baton Rouge. The community's response to such cases varies, often influenced by factors like media coverage and public interest. The Importance of Continued AwarenessMaintaining public awareness is crucial in missing persons cases. Sharing information, keeping the conversation alive, and encouraging community involvement can lead to breakthroughs, even years after the initial disappearance.How You Can HelpIf you have any information regarding Keandre Collins's disappearance, please contact the Baton Rouge Police Department at (225) 239-7832 or Crime Stoppers at (225) 344-7867. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online at www.crimestoppersbr.com.Conclusion: A Family's Unyielding Hope Over a decade has passed since Keandre Collins vanished, but his family's hope for answers remains steadfast. They continue to seek closure and justice, urging anyone with information to come forward and help solve this enduring mystery.

  • 0 Vanished Without a Trace: The Unsolved Disappearance of Justin Sewell in Redlands

    0.00 of 0 votes

    A Mysterious Disappearance in RedlandsOn July 3, 2018, Justin Albert Sewell, a 40-year-old resident of Redlands, California, was last seen. Following this date, he ceased all communication with his family, leading to growing concern among his loved ones. Despite efforts to locate him, no contact has been made since his disappearance. Physical Description and Personal DetailsAt the time he went missing, Justin was described as a white male, standing between 5 feet 6 inches and 5 feet 10 inches tall, and weighing between 180 and 200 pounds. He had red or auburn hair and green eyes. These details were provided to assist in identification efforts. Circumstances Surrounding the DisappearanceThe circumstances of Justin's disappearance remain unclear. He was last seen in Redlands, California, and there have been no confirmed sightings or communications since that day. The lack of information has made the investigation challenging for authorities and distressing for his family and friends. Official Investigation and Case DetailsThe Redlands Police Department is the primary agency investigating Justin Sewell's disappearance. The case was officially reported on July 26, 2018, and is registered under the agency case number 180029403. Detective Thomas Williams is listed as the case owner. The case was later entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) on April 21, 2025, under the case number MP142401. Community Response and Ongoing EffortsSince Justin's disappearance, there has been limited public information or media coverage regarding the case. The community's awareness and involvement are crucial in such cases, and any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, could be vital to the investigation. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information about Justin Sewell's whereabouts or the circumstances of his disappearance to come forward. Conclusion The disappearance of Justin Sewell remains an open and unresolved case. The lack of concrete information and leads has left his family and the community searching for answers. Continued public awareness and cooperation with law enforcement are essential in the hope of uncovering the truth behind Justin's disappearance. 

  • 0 Into the Alaskan Night: The Unsolved Disappearance of Brendan Mattingley

    0.00 of 0 votes

    A Routine Trip Turns MysteriousOn October 13, 2012, Brendan Mattingley, a 27-year-old student pilot from Palmer, Alaska, embarked on what was supposed to be a routine flight from Soldotna to Palmer. Flying his red, white, and green Piper PA-18 Super Cub, Mattingley departed Soldotna Airport in the early hours, but neither he nor his aircraft were ever seen again. The disappearance sparked an extensive search and remains one of Alaska's enduring aviation mysteries.The Final Hours Before DepartureMattingley and a fellow pilot had flown to Soldotna on October 12, planning to return the next day. That evening, they attended a local hockey game and later visited several bars. Witnesses reported that Mattingley became "very intoxicated" and was asked to leave one establishment. A cab driver recounted that after initially refusing to exit at a hotel, Mattingley insisted on being taken to the airport, stating he intended to sleep in his plane—a practice he had done before. This was the last confirmed sighting of him.An Erratic Flight PathRadar data indicated that around 1:37 a.m., an unidentified aircraft, believed to be Mattingley's, took off from Soldotna Airport. The flight path was erratic, with multiple changes in speed, altitude, and direction. The aircraft eventually headed northwest over Cook Inlet before turning northeast. The last radar contact was at 2:48 a.m., approximately 30 miles north of Soldotna, descending over the inlet. The area is known for strong tides and low visibility, complicating search efforts.Search Efforts and ChallengesUpon realizing Mattingley was overdue, a massive search operation was launched, involving the Civil Air Patrol, Alaska State Troopers, the Alaska Air National Guard, the U.S. Coast Guard, and numerous volunteers. Despite extensive efforts, no trace of Mattingley or his aircraft was found. The search was officially suspended on October 21, 2012, though family and friends continued to look for answers.Investigative FindingsThe National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) conducted an investigation into the disappearance. They noted that Mattingley had a history of a prior DWI conviction in 2002, which he failed to disclose on his FAA medical application. At the time of the incident, he held a student pilot certificate with approximately 15 hours of flight experience. The aircraft was equipped with an older 121.5 MHz Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT), which was no longer monitored by satellites, potentially hindering rescue operations.A Lingering MysteryIn the years following the disappearance, there have been no confirmed sightings or recoveries related to Mattingley or his aircraft. The case remains open, with the NTSB listing the probable cause as "undetermined." The combination of challenging terrain, adverse weather conditions, and the vastness of Alaska's wilderness contributes to the enduring mystery surrounding Mattingley's fate.Reflections and Safety ConsiderationsThe disappearance of Brendan Mattingley underscores the importance of thorough pre-flight planning, including filing flight plans and ensuring aircraft are equipped with up-to-date safety equipment like 406 MHz ELTs. It also highlights the risks associated with flying under the influence and the critical need for accurate disclosure of medical and legal histories to aviation authorities.Conclusion Brendan Mattingley's vanishing act over the Alaskan skies serves as a somber reminder of the unforgiving nature of aviation in remote areas. Despite the passage of time, the hope for closure persists among his loved ones and the aviation community. The case continues to be a poignant chapter in Alaska's history of missing persons and unexplained disappearances.

  • 0 Vanished Without a Trace: The Unsolved Disappearance of Justin Sewell in Redlands

    0.00 of 0 votes

    A Mysterious Disappearance in RedlandsOn July 3, 2018, Justin Albert Sewell, a 40-year-old resident of Redlands, California, was last seen. Following this date, he ceased all communication with his family, leading to growing concern among his loved ones. Despite efforts to locate him, no contact has been made since his disappearance. Physical Description and Personal DetailsAt the time he went missing, Justin was described as a white male, standing between 5 feet 6 inches and 5 feet 10 inches tall, and weighing between 180 and 200 pounds. He had red or auburn hair and green eyes. These details were provided to assist in identification efforts. Circumstances Surrounding the DisappearanceThe circumstances of Justin's disappearance remain unclear. He was last seen in Redlands, California, and there have been no confirmed sightings or communications since that day. The lack of information has made the investigation challenging for authorities and distressing for his family and friends. Official Investigation and Case DetailsThe Redlands Police Department is the primary agency investigating Justin Sewell's disappearance. The case was officially reported on July 26, 2018, and is registered under the agency case number 180029403. Detective Thomas Williams is listed as the case owner. The case was later entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) on April 21, 2025, under the case number MP142401. Community Response and Ongoing EffortsSince Justin's disappearance, there has been limited public information or media coverage regarding the case. The community's awareness and involvement are crucial in such cases, and any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, could be vital to the investigation. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information about Justin Sewell's whereabouts or the circumstances of his disappearance to come forward. Conclusion The disappearance of Justin Sewell remains an open and unresolved case. The lack of concrete information and leads has left his family and the community searching for answers. Continued public awareness and cooperation with law enforcement are essential in the hope of uncovering the truth behind Justin's disappearance. 

  • 0 Vanished on Two Wheels: The Unsolved Disappearance of Oscar Fuentes in Los Angeles

    0.00 of 0 votes

    Vanished on Two Wheels: The Unsolved Disappearance of Oscar Fuentes in Los AngelesA Young Man's Vanishing ActOn January 12, 2019, 19-year-old Oscar Fuentes told his mother he was heading to Van Nuys on his bicycle. That was the last time anyone saw him. Living in a semi-homeless state, Oscar's disappearance went largely unnoticed by the public, but his family was left in anguish, searching for answers that have yet to come. Despite efforts by the Los Angeles Police Department's Adult Missing Persons Unit, Oscar's case remains unsolved.The Circumstances Surrounding His DisappearanceOscar was described as being 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighing approximately 120 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. On the day he vanished, he informed his mother of his plans to travel to Van Nuys, a neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley region of Los Angeles. Given his semi-homeless status, it's unclear where he was residing at the time, which may have contributed to the challenges in tracking his movements. The lack of information about his clothing or belongings further complicates the investigation.Delayed Reporting and Its ImpactNotably, Oscar's disappearance was not reported to the authorities until January 5, 2020, nearly a year after he was last seen. This significant delay in reporting likely hindered the initial stages of the investigation, as crucial time was lost in gathering evidence and potential leads. The reasons behind this delay remain unclear, but it underscores the importance of timely reporting in missing persons cases.The Ongoing InvestigationThe Los Angeles Police Department's Adult Missing Persons Unit continues to handle Oscar's case. Despite the passage of time, they urge anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that even the smallest detail could prove pivotal. The case is also listed in the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs), which provides a platform for public engagement and information sharing.Community Involvement and AwarenessCommunity involvement plays a crucial role in resolving missing persons cases. Public awareness campaigns, social media sharing, and community outreach can generate new leads and keep the case in the public eye. In Oscar's case, increased community engagement could potentially unearth information that has remained hidden for years.The Human Element: A Family's Unending SearchFor Oscar's family, the pain of his disappearance is compounded by the lack of closure. Each passing day without answers adds to their anguish. They continue to hope for information that could shed light on what happened to their son and brother. Their experience highlights the emotional toll that missing persons cases take on families and the importance of providing support and resources to those affected.The Broader Context: Missing Persons in Los AngelesOscar's case is one among many in Los Angeles, a city with a significant number of missing persons reports each year. Factors such as homelessness, mental health issues, and transient lifestyles contribute to the complexity of these cases. Addressing these underlying issues is essential in preventing disappearances and improving response efforts when they occur.Conclusion: A Call to Action The disappearance of Oscar Fuentes remains a haunting mystery. As time passes, the urgency to find answers only grows. Law enforcement, community members, and the public at large must continue to work together to seek the truth. If you have any information regarding Oscar's whereabouts or circumstances surrounding his disappearance, please contact the Los Angeles Police Department's Adult Missing Persons Unit at (877) 275-5273. Your information could be the key to solving this case and bringing peace to a grieving family.

  • 0 Vanished in the Shadows: The Unresolved Disappearance of Brandon Lee in Gallup, New Mexico

    0.00 of 0 votes

    The Man Who Disappeared Without a TraceOn February 16, 2019, Brandon Lee, a 39-year-old Navajo man, was last seen in the 600 block of Vanden Bosch Parkway in Gallup, New Mexico, at approximately 3:00 p.m. He was wearing a black Dickies t-shirt, black Dickies pants, and sneakers. Brandon stood 5'5" tall, weighed around 180 pounds, and had black hair and brown eyes. Notably, he had a tattoo of the word "Rudy" on his arm. Despite his disappearance, he wasn't reported missing until December 2022, nearly four years later, for reasons that remain unclear. A Troubling Delay in ReportingThe significant delay in reporting Brandon's disappearance raises numerous questions. Typically, missing person reports are filed within days or weeks, especially when the individual has close ties to family or community. The fact that Brandon's absence went unreported for such an extended period suggests potential gaps in communication or other underlying issues that have yet to be publicly addressed.Sparse Details and Limited LeadsInformation about Brandon's case is scarce. There have been no public updates regarding potential sightings, leads, or investigative breakthroughs. The lack of information hampers efforts to generate public interest or gather tips that could aid in locating him. This silence is particularly concerning given the extended period since his disappearance.The Broader Context of Missing Indigenous PersonsBrandon's case is not isolated. Gallup, New Mexico, and the surrounding areas have seen numerous cases involving missing Native American individuals. The issue of missing and murdered Indigenous persons has garnered national attention, highlighting systemic challenges in addressing and resolving such cases. Brandon's disappearance underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to tackle this crisis.Community Response and Ongoing EffortsWhile official information is limited, community members and organizations continue to advocate for Brandon and others who are missing. Efforts include raising awareness through social media, organizing community events, and collaborating with law enforcement to keep these cases in the public eye. Such grassroots initiatives are vital in maintaining momentum and seeking justice for the missing and their families.Conclusion: A Call for Vigilance and ActionBrandon Lee's disappearance remains a haunting mystery. The prolonged delay in reporting, coupled with the lack of available information, presents significant challenges in uncovering the truth. However, by continuing to share his story and advocating for systemic changes, there remains hope that answers will emerge. Anyone with information about Brandon's whereabouts is urged to contact the Gallup Police Department at 505-722-2231.

  • 0 Vanished Without a Trace: The Unsolved Disappearance of Anthony Dwayne Jones in Danville

    0.00 of 0 votes

    A Quiet Summer Day Turns Into a MysteryOn July 11, 2019, 35-year-old Anthony Dwayne Jones was last seen in Danville, Virginia. Standing at 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing approximately 160 pounds, Anthony was known for his distinctive tattoos adorning his neck, hands, and arms, as well as a notable scar on his nose. That day, he vanished without a trace, leaving behind a void that his family and the community have felt ever since. Despite the passage of time, the circumstances surrounding his disappearance remain shrouded in uncertainty.A Man Known for His Distinctive FeaturesAnthony's physical characteristics were unique and easily recognizable. His tattoos, particularly the one on his neck, were defining features, and his scar added to his distinctive appearance. These details were crucial in the initial stages of the investigation, as authorities and loved ones hoped they would aid in locating him. However, despite these identifiable traits, no substantial leads have emerged.Sparse Details and Lingering QuestionsThe information surrounding Anthony's disappearance is minimal. He was last seen in Danville, but the exact location and circumstances of his last known whereabouts are unclear. There have been no confirmed sightings, communications, or activities linked to him since that day. The lack of concrete information has made the investigation challenging, leaving many questions unanswered.The Investigation: A Case Gone ColdThe Danville Police Department has been the primary agency handling Anthony's case. Despite their efforts, the investigation has yielded little progress. The case has been entered into national databases, including the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs), under case number MP141240. Yet, no significant developments have been reported, and the trail has grown cold over the years.Community Impact and Ongoing HopeAnthony's disappearance has had a profound impact on his family and the Danville community. Friends and relatives continue to hold onto hope, organizing events and sharing information in the hopes of generating new leads. The community's support has been unwavering, reflecting the deep concern and desire for answers that persist to this day.The Importance of Public AwarenessCases like Anthony's highlight the critical role public awareness plays in missing persons investigations. Media coverage, social media sharing, and community engagement can often lead to breakthroughs. In Anthony's case, continued dissemination of his story and details could be the key to uncovering new information. Every shared post or conversation about his case keeps the possibility of resolution alive.A Call to ActionIf you have any information regarding the disappearance of Anthony Dwayne Jones, please contact the Danville Police Department at 434-799-5111. Even the smallest detail could prove pivotal in solving this case. For more information, you can also refer to his profile on The Charley Project and NamUs.Conclusion: Keeping the Memory Alive As the years pass, the urgency to find answers in Anthony's case remains. His family deserves closure, and the community seeks resolution. By keeping his story in the public eye, we honor his memory and reaffirm our commitment to seeking justice. Let us continue to share, discuss, and remember Anthony Dwayne Jones, ensuring that his case is never forgotten.

  • 0 Vanished in the Valley: The Unresolved Disappearance of Sarai Velazquez from Phoenix

    0.00 of 0 votes

    A Sudden Disappearance in the Desert CityOn the evening of January 14, 2020, 16-year-old Sarai Velazquez vanished from the streets of Phoenix, Arizona. She was last seen around 8:00 p.m. near the intersection of 10th and Hatcher Streets. The circumstances surrounding her disappearance remain unclear, and despite ongoing efforts, Sarai has not been found. Her case is documented in the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) under case number MP140493 and is also listed with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) as case number 1379552. The Initial InvestigationFollowing Sarai's disappearance, the Phoenix Police Department initiated an investigation. Detective Daniel Nonnemacher was assigned to the case, and efforts were made to gather information from the community. However, details about the investigation's findings have not been publicly disclosed, and no significant leads have been reported. Community Response and Awareness EffortsSarai's disappearance prompted concern within the Phoenix community. Flyers were distributed, and information about her case was shared on various platforms to raise awareness. Organizations dedicated to locating missing persons included her case in their databases, hoping to generate leads that could assist in finding her. Ongoing Search and ResourcesDespite the passage of time, efforts to locate Sarai continue. The Phoenix Police Department's Missing and Unidentified Persons Detail remains involved in the case. They encourage anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that even small details could be crucial. The Broader Context of Missing Persons in PhoenixSarai's case is one among many in the Phoenix area. The city has a significant number of missing persons cases, and law enforcement agencies work diligently to address each one. Resources such as the Maricopa County Office of the Medical Examiner and various missing persons databases are utilized to aid in these efforts. How to HelpIf you have any information regarding Sarai Velazquez's disappearance, please contact the Phoenix Police Department's Missing and Unidentified Persons Detail at 602-534-2121 during business hours or 602-262-6141 after hours and on weekends. ConclusionThe disappearance of Sarai Velazquez remains a distressing mystery. As the years pass, the hope of finding answers endures. Community awareness and vigilance are vital in such cases, and any information, no matter how minor it may seem, could be the key to resolving this case.

  • 0 The Vanishing Trail: Unraveling the Disappearance of Herman Harston

    0.00 of 0 votes

    A Quiet DepartureOn August 1, 2020, 75-year-old Herman Edward Harston was last seen leaving his home on Chatelaine Avenue in Danville, Virginia, reportedly heading to a local store. Known for his independence, Harston often used the city's transit system and would occasionally be away from home for extended periods, sometimes up to a month. His family, accustomed to these absences, became concerned when months passed without any contact. It wasn't until February 19, 2021, that they reported him missing to the Danville Police Department, marking over six months since his last sighting. The Search BeginsUpon receiving the missing person report, the Danville Police initiated an investigation into Harston's disappearance. They conducted searches in local hospitals and reached out to extended family and friends, but no one had seen or heard from him since August. The police also utilized the city's crime tips app, CARE, to solicit information from the public, hoping that someone might have seen Harston or had knowledge of his whereabouts. A Possible LeadIn late February 2021, a potential breakthrough emerged. Danville Police received "reliable information" suggesting that Harston had traveled on his own to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, in September 2020 and was in good health at that time. This lead prompted collaboration with Oklahoma authorities to verify the information and locate Harston. Family Concerns PersistDespite the potential lead, Harston's family remained deeply concerned. A Facebook post from a family member in the "Living in Danville & Pittsylvania County" group expressed frustration and worry, noting that Harston had not contacted his family in two years. The post highlighted the emotional toll the prolonged absence had taken on his loved ones and their desire for closure. Official Records and Ongoing EffortsHarston's case is listed in the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) under case number MP141237. The database confirms his last known contact date as August 1, 2020, and notes his physical characteristics: a 5'10" African-American male weighing approximately 170 pounds, with gray hair and brown eyes. The Charley Project, a database dedicated to missing persons cases, also features Harston's case, reiterating the limited information available and the lack of updates since his disappearance. Community InvolvementThe Danville community has played a role in keeping Harston's case in the public eye. Local news outlets, such as 103.3 WAKG, reported on the case, urging anyone with information to come forward. The Danville Police Department continues to encourage the public to provide tips through their CARE app or by calling 434-793-0000. The Unanswered QuestionsAs of now, the circumstances surrounding Harston's disappearance remain unclear. The potential sighting in Oklahoma City has not been conclusively verified, and no further updates have been provided. His family continues to seek answers, holding onto hope that he will be found safe.ConclusionThe case of Herman Edward Harston underscores the challenges faced in missing persons investigations, especially when initial reports are delayed. It highlights the importance of timely reporting and community involvement in aiding search efforts. As time passes, the hope remains that new information will surface, providing clarity and closure for Harston's family and the Danville community.