Betty Balas Missing Person Case

Betty Balas, 76, and her husband Louis Balas, 77, were last seen at their home in the Wilshire district of Los Angeles, California, on December 13, 1980. The couple vanished under mysterious circumstances between 6:15 and 9:00 p.m. When police later investigated, they found the front door of their home open, a set of keys in the lock, the television turned on, and the bathtub filled with water. No signs of struggle were evident, and the only missing items were their car and the car keys. Their maroon 1978 Cadillac was located the following day in a vacant lot, seven miles from their home.

The couple's disappearance occurred just one day before Louis was scheduled to testify in court against Larry Eugene Boyce, who had attacked, robbed, and threatened him in 1978. Boyce, who had a prior murder conviction and was out on bail, was later convicted of various charges, including the kidnapping of Louis. Despite these connections, authorities have not conclusively linked Boyce to the Balases' disappearance. Investigators suspect foul play, believing that up to three individuals, including a possibly pregnant woman, were involved in the case. However, the couple has never been found, and their case remains unsolved.
Last Seen: Dec 13, 1980

Betty Balas - The Charley Project

Betty Balas | State of California - Department of Justice

3943DFCA - Betty Balas - Doe Network

Louis Balas | State of California - Department of Justice

Police seek three in apparent kidnap of elederly couple - UPI Archives

Missing Person / NamUs

Betty Balas