Brian Keith Montel Missing Person Case

Brian Keith Montel, a 22-year-old Hispanic male, was last seen at his home in Fresno, California on March 21, 1986. At the time of his disappearance, he was described as being 6'0" tall and weighing approximately 160 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. A significant distinguishing characteristic was that his right hand was missing. Montel was also reported to have an unspecified behavior disorder.

On the day he went missing, Montel was at his residence. He reportedly spoke to his sister at 10:30 pm and may have been heading to Yosemite. After this last contact, he was never heard from again, and few details were initially available regarding the circumstances of his disappearance. His case was classified as an endangered missing person.

For decades, Montel's whereabouts remained unknown. However, a significant development in the case occurred in 2024. Skeletal remains that were discovered below the northwest face of Half Dome in Yosemite National Park in July 1987 were officially identified as belonging to Brian Keith Montel. His family was notified of the identification in late March 2024, bringing a long-awaited, albeit somber, conclusion to their search. Family members have expressed both relief at finally having closure and frustration regarding the 37-year period it took to identify the remains, despite dental and DNA information being available.
Last Seen: Mar 21, 1986

Brian Keith Montel - The Charley Project

Brian Montel - International Missing Persons Wiki - Fandom

CA - Brian Keith Montel, 22, Fresno, 21 March 1986 | Websleuths

Brian Keith Montel | State of California - Department of Justice