Ruben Humberto Herrera, a 14-year-old boy, disappeared on April 27, 1983, in El Paso, Texas. Ruben left his home that morning to walk to Eastwood Heights Elementary School but never arrived. His disappearance quickly raised suspicions of foul play, as shortly after, his maternal uncle received a ransom call demanding $300,000 for Ruben’s safe return.
The caller used personal nicknames, indicating familiarity with the family, and arranged a drop-off, though no contact with the kidnappers was made.
Further investigation led authorities to arrest Ruben’s stepfather's brother, Raymond Henry Acosta, who was caught making phone calls related to the ransom demands. Acosta was found in possession of instructions on where to leave the ransom, but he claimed Ruben was already dead. Acosta was later convicted of conspiracy to commit kidnapping, though he never revealed the location of Ruben or his body. Authorities believe Ruben may have been taken to Mexico in a silver and green Cadillac, which was later recovered, but no further trace of Ruben has been found.
In 2013, a man claiming to be Ruben contacted a South American organization, seeking assistance with his immigration status, but this individual’s identity has not been confirmed. Ruben’s case remains unsolved, and foul play is strongly suspected. The mystery surrounding his abduction continues to haunt investigators and his family.Last Seen: Apr 27, 1983
