Jason Edward Thornton Townsend, a 3-year-old boy, went missing from Lauderhill, Florida, on May 20, 1980. On the day of his disappearance, Jason's mother, Augusta Walker, left him in the care of her boyfriend, Roscoe Pierce, while she worked. According to Pierce, Jason wandered off when they visited a nearby convenience store in the afternoon. However, later events cast doubt on Pierce’s version of events, leading authorities to suspect foul play.
Pierce's behavior after Jason's disappearance aroused suspicion. The day after the boy went missing, Pierce removed plastic sheeting and two duffel bags from the apartment, leading Jason's mother to grow increasingly concerned. As she attempted to confront him, Pierce fled. Upon investigation, police discovered that Pierce was a fugitive from New York, wanted for sexually abusing a young girl. He had been living under the alias "Emerson Blatch" while with Walker.
Pierce was located two days later by Florida authorities, but during his apprehension, he reached for an officer's gun and was fatally shot. Pierce never revealed any information about Jason's whereabouts before his death. With no further leads, the case remains unsolved, and authorities suspect foul play. Despite extensive efforts, Jason has never been found, and his case remains open to this day.
Last Seen: May 20, 1980
