Dorothy Vivian Autrey, age 84, was last seen on the night of February 20, 2008, at her home in Cayucos, California. She lived with her grandson, Matthew James Levine, who later reported her missing on February 21 after claiming he woke up to find her gone. Autrey’s car and other belongings, including her white Buick, were left behind, and she was not known to walk due to knee and feet issues, preferring to drive.
An initial search led to the discovery of her waterlogged purse near the Cayucos pier, though there was no other sign of her. Levine later turned himself in to the police and confessed to accidentally killing his grandmother during a confrontation, claiming he was under the influence of cough syrup and marijuana. He stated he had disposed of her body off a cliff, but despite extensive searches, her remains were never found.
Levine, who had a history of substance abuse and criminal activity, was later convicted of first-degree murder and elder abuse in 2009. Authorities suspected foul play from the outset, citing inconsistencies in Levine's account and the presence of bloodstains in the house. Autrey was described as a vibrant and active woman, and her disappearance is believed to have been motivated by Levine's intent to inherit her property.
Last Seen: Feb 20, 2008
