In the summer of 1986, a caring grandfather and his young grandson vanished from the quiet area of Avra Valley, Arizona, leaving behind a mystery that has endured for decades. Fifty-three-year-old Roland Himebrook was last seen on the evening of July 7, 1986, with his 11-year-old grandson, Richard Gorham. The two lived together in Marana, and their sudden disappearance was alarming to those who knew them.
A friend of Roland's grew concerned after not hearing from them and reported them missing on July 12. The circumstances of their disappearance were immediately unsettling, as both Roland and Richard had left behind all of their clothing and personal belongings, suggesting their departure was not planned. It was also considered highly uncharacteristic of Roland to leave without contacting his daughter.
The investigation into the disappearance of Roland and his grandson Richard took a troubling turn with the discovery of Roland's vehicle months later. On September 27, 1986, his white 1966 Chevrolet El Camino pickup truck was found abandoned in the desert near Silver Bell, south of Tucson. Authorities estimated that the truck had been left there for about two months. A thorough search of the vehicle and the surrounding area yielded no clues as to the whereabouts of Roland or Richard, deepening the concern for their well-being. The discovery of the abandoned truck, far from their home and with no sign of the grandfather or grandson, pointed towards a more ominous explanation for their disappearance.
Decades have passed since Roland Himebrook and Richard Gorham were last seen, and their case remains an unsolved and painful mystery for their family. The investigation brought to light difficult family dynamics; Richard had been living with his grandfather after running away from his mother's home to escape the alleged abuse of her live-in boyfriend. It was reported that Roland had several confrontations with this man regarding the alleged abuse. This individual has been considered a possible suspect in the case. The Pima County Sheriff's Department has investigated the case, but there has been no indication of what happened to the grandfather and grandson since that summer day in 1986. The disappearance of Roland Himebrook, a man trying to protect his grandson, and young Richard, a boy seeking refuge, is a heartbreaking story that continues to seek answers and resolution.Last Seen: Jul 6, 1986
