In late 1999, a 22-year-old vegetation research intern named John Cameron Reece was working for the United States Geological Survey's Biological Resources Division in the Mauna Loa area of Hawaii. He was residing in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park near Hilo and was involved with the Palila restoration project. For his Thanksgiving vacation, Reece, an experienced hiker who had some familiarity with the local terrain, planned a four-day solo hike.
His intended route was to traverse the remote and beautiful coastline from North Kohala's Pololu Valley to the Waipio Valley in Hamakua. This trek is known for its challenging and stunning landscapes, a journey that would appeal to someone with his background and interests. The plan was a multi-day excursion, and he had prepared accordingly for the time he would be in the wilderness.
On the morning of Thanksgiving Day, November 25, 1999, a fellow intern gave Reece a ride to Keaau, a town in the Puna district. He was dropped off at approximately 7:00 a.m. with the intention of hitchhiking the rest of the way to the starting point of his hike at Pololu Valley. When he was last seen, he was wearing camouflage pants and a light-colored t-shirt. He was carrying a distinctive red Kelty Redwing model backpack which contained his essential gear for the planned four-day trip. Inside the pack was his raingear, a tarp, a hammock for sleeping, a small camp stove, and enough food to last for the duration of his hike. Reece is described as a Caucasian male, standing at 5-feet-10 inches tall and weighing about 155 pounds, with a slim build. He has short brown hair, blue eyes, and at the time he went missing, he wore wire-rim glasses.
As the days passed and Reece did not return or make contact, concerns grew for his safety. It was unclear if he ever made it to the Pololu Valley to begin his intended hike. An intensive and widespread search was launched in the mountainous and rugged region between the North Kohala and Hamakua districts, but tragically, no trace of him was ever found. The search efforts included both helicopter and ground teams scouring the vast and difficult terrain. Despite the extensive searches and public appeals for information from anyone who may have seen him or given him a ride, his disappearance remains a mystery. The case is an overview of a young, experienced hiker who planned a solo trip in a remote area and vanished without a trace, leaving behind unanswered questions for his family and friends.Last Seen: Nov 25, 1999
