Joel Amundson, a 26-year-old man from Williston, North Dakota, disappeared on October 18, 1996, while on a bow hunting trip near the Missouri River. That morning, he launched his boat from a ramp in McKenzie County, but by noon, his empty boat was found on the north side of the river in Williams County, three miles east of the Lewis and Clark Bridge. Inside the boat, authorities discovered his bow, and there were signs suggesting the vessel may have struck an object, possibly a log.
However, there was no sign of Joel himself.
Amundson was reported missing later that evening, around 6 p.m., prompting an extensive search. Despite being a strong swimmer and in excellent physical condition, authorities believe he may have fallen from the boat and drowned, although his body has never been recovered. His family has expressed hope that he might still be alive, possibly suffering from amnesia due to head injuries he sustained in the past.
At the time of his disappearance, Amundson was working as a salesman at a sporting goods store in Williston. His case remains unsolved, and the McKenzie County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate in the hopes of uncovering new leads.Last Seen: Oct 18, 1996
