Joseph Gerald Riley, a 29-year-old man, went missing on May 1, 1995, in Barstow, California. Riley was last seen with another man, Mark Wayne Adamson, at a Wal-Mart parking lot. The two men were reportedly getting into a maroon sedan, intending to purchase a vehicle. Adamson was believed to be carrying a large amount of cash at the time. Neither Riley nor Adamson has been seen or heard from since that day.
Investigations into their disappearances revealed potential foul play linked to a drug deal involving ephedrine, a precursor chemical for methamphetamine production. Authorities believe that Riley and Adamson may have been victims of a robbery and murder during the transaction. In 2012, multiple suspects, including Christian Leonard Bunty Sr. and James Linzy Franklin, were charged in connection to their murders. However, despite these charges, Riley's body has never been found, and the case remains unresolved.
Despite some legal developments, including a conviction for Franklin in 2015, the exact whereabouts of Riley and Adamson are still unknown, and authorities suspect their remains may be buried in the Mojave Desert. The case remains open, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact local law enforcement.
Last Seen: May 01, 1995
