Austin Jay Smith, a 23-year-old from El Monte, California, was last seen on March 23, 1993. That evening, Austin left home to meet with his former boss at the Rosemead High School auditorium, where he planned to borrow equipment for his disc jockey work. Despite concerns from his family and girlfriend due to his strained relationship with the boss, Austin went to the meeting. His girlfriend later noticed Austin's truck parked next to his boss's vehicle at the school.
When she tried to check on him, the boss refused to let her in. Later that night, both vehicles were still at the location.
Austin was never seen again after this encounter. His truck was found the next day, abandoned near a dumpster a few blocks away. Investigators discovered a small amount of blood in the auditorium, but it was mistakenly discarded. Suspicion fell on Austin’s former boss, particularly after learning that Austin had written a letter accusing him of financial misconduct, leading to threats from the boss. Despite being the primary suspect, no charges have been filed due to insufficient evidence and the lack of Austin’s body.
Austin was described as a responsible, outgoing young man who took care of his widowed mother. He had been studying at Citrus College and working toward a career in accounting. His disappearance remains unsolved, and authorities believe he may have been the victim of foul play on the night he went missing.Last Seen: Mar 23, 1993
