Crime Solvers Central
Crime Solvers Central
298 Cases Solved. Advancing justice for missing persons, unsolved homicides, unidentified and unclaimed remains.

Case Description

Any updates on this case? Let us know!
Summary based on the NamUs case record (MP28967) and 12 other sources
Billie Bob Black, a 74-year-old man, disappeared alongside his wife, Mary Lou Black, on September 11, 2009, from their home in Atchison, Kansas. The couple left their residence on Pacific Street around 8:15 PM in their light blue 1990 Honda Civic, and they were never seen again. The couple’s car, which had a loud exhaust and missing paint on the hood, has also never been found. Both Billie and Mary suffered from significant health problems; Billie had severe diabetes, impaired vision, and difficulty walking, while Mary was in the advanced stages of Alzheimer's disease.

Upon investigation, authorities found that the lights in their home were left on, and both their driver’s licenses, checkbook, some cash, and Billie’s insulin were still inside. Given Billie’s statement to his son about the difficulties of caring for his wife and his own health problems, some speculate that they may have driven into the nearby Missouri River, possibly intentionally. However, despite searches, no conclusive evidence has been found to support this theory, and the case remains unsolved.

The couple had a long history together, having been high school sweethearts in Missouri, and they were described as quiet but reclusive by their neighbors. The mystery of their disappearance has baffled investigators and their family, who continue to seek answers. There has been no sign of foul play, but with little evidence to guide the investigation, their whereabouts remain unknown.

Last Seen: Sep 11, 2009

Possible Unidentified Matches (1)

Unidentified remains cases whose details are consistent with this person, ranked by how closely they compare. Fields that are unknown in either case are left out of the score.

75%Possible
John Doe — Kansas City, Missouri
UP108495 • Found Jan 1, 2017
View case
Sex ✓Male
Age 100%Est. 78–92 vs 74 when missing
Race 100%White
Location 91%43 mi away
TimingFound 7 years after last seen
Hair 100%Gray vs Gray

These comparisons are generated automatically from public NamUs case data and are not confirmed identifications. Only DNA, dental or fingerprint comparison by investigators can confirm an identity. If you believe two cases are connected, contact the agency handling the unidentified case.