In the summer of 2009, concerns grew for the well-being of 32-year-old Samuel David Schrup. The last confirmed sighting of Samuel was by his father in New Mexico on July 11, 2009. His vehicle was later discovered abandoned on Shrine Pass Road in Eagle County, Colorado, and it was determined to have been there since at least July 22, 2009. The vehicle, covered in dust and pine needles, suggested it had been stationary for a significant period. Inside the car, a handwritten journal was found, with a final, cryptic entry that read, 'about to hike a hill. See you after ; '. Near the vehicle, investigators found a campsite, but there was no sign of Samuel. This discovery prompted an extensive search of the surrounding area.
Friends and family grew increasingly worried, with a friend noting that Samuel had been depressed prior to his disappearance. This information, coupled with the mysterious circumstances, added a layer of urgency to the search.
Search and rescue teams, including K-9 units with bloodhounds, were deployed to comb the rugged terrain around Shrine Pass, but their efforts yielded no clues as to Samuel's whereabouts. An initial search of his vehicle in 2009 did not turn up a handgun he was known to carry for protection while hiking. However, in a later search in 2011, as the vehicle was being released to his family, the handgun was found concealed inside.
The disappearance of Samuel Schrup remains an unresolved and troubling case. The discovery of his car and the final journal entry suggest he intended to go for a hike and return, yet he has not been seen or heard from since. Despite extensive searches and the passage of time, no further evidence has emerged to explain what happened to him in the Colorado wilderness. The Eagle County Sheriff's Office continues to have the case open, and the lack of answers leaves a painful void for his family and friends who are left to wonder about his fate.Last Seen: Jul 22, 2009
