Kyle Andrew Carl Eppler, age 20, was last seen on July 28, 1999, in Naples, Florida. That morning, he visited his mother at her workplace and borrowed $20, mentioning he planned to visit his girlfriend and then head to work at a local restaurant. However, Kyle never showed up at either location, and his family has not heard from him since. He left behind a cryptic note at home that read, "Gone to find my river and myself."
His abandoned 1988 Toyota Camry was later discovered
at the Coastal Prairie Trail in Everglades National Park, three hours from Naples. Inside the vehicle, investigators found camping gear, clothes, food, and personal journals, suggesting Kyle may have planned an extended outdoor trip. A shirt believed to belong to him was located several miles along a trail in the park, but other belongings, such as a pair of his hiking boots and a favorite hat, were missing.
At the time of his disappearance, Kyle was studying zoology at Santa Fe College and had a passion for animals and nature, volunteering at animal shelters and working on snake farms. He had also previously battled mental health issues, including two suicide attempts, and was without his prescribed medication when he disappeared. Despite searches and the passage of time, no further clues have surfaced, and Kyle's case remains unsolved. Authorities believe he may have ventured into the wilderness and met with misfortune.Last Seen: Jul 28, 1999
