Austin William Sparks, a 15-year-old from Montgomery Creek, California, disappeared on January 4, 2004. That morning, he woke up early due to side effects from psychiatric medications that disrupted his sleep. After briefly speaking with his father, he left the house, walking through the snow toward the nearby Acorn Cafe. His footprints were tracked for over two miles, leading to the edge of the Pitt River, but Austin himself was never found. An employee of the cafe saw him enter twice between 9:30 and 10:00 a.m., but he vanished shortly after.
Austin had severe emotional problems and had been taking anti-depressants for several years. Although his new medication made him more outgoing, it also made him more trusting and vulnerable. Investigators believe he may have fallen into the river and drowned, but despite extensive searches, no trace of him has been recovered. His case remains open and unsolved, with his family continuing to search for answers.
Last Seen: Jan 4, 2004
