Vernon Ralph Erno, 82 years old at the time of his disappearance, was last seen on December 28, 2003, in San Luis Obispo, California. Vernon, who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease, was being driven by his son to a local golf course when he became upset and asked to be let out of the car near the intersection of Madonna Road and Los Osos Valley Road. He fled on foot from the shopping center where he was dropped off, and despite an extensive search, no trace of him has ever been found.
At the time of his disappearance, Vernon was wearing a hunter-green fleece jacket, olive-green khakis, tan slip-on shoes, and a light green beret-style hat. He also had a gold ring with a large, chipped blue stone and was carrying identification and a credit card, which has never been used since. His Alzheimer's disease caused frequent confusion and paranoia, though he could have brief periods of clarity. It is believed that he likely wandered off and became lost.
Vernon was familiar with the Laguna Lake area, having lived there previously with his son. At the time of his disappearance, he was visiting from his home in Auburn, Washington. His case remains unsolved, and authorities continue to hope for leads that might shed light on his whereabouts.Last Seen: Dec 28, 2003