Melvin Mestre, Jr Missing Person Case

Mar 17, 2020

Mar 14, 2024

Melvin

Mestre, Jr

59

25

68 inches

160 lbs

White / Caucasian

Male

On May 30, 1992, 25-year-old Melvin William Mestre, Jr., a male, and two companions, Robert Gershbein and Daniel Orbik, embarked on a canoeing trip in the scenic yet formidable waters of Kachemak Bay near Homer, Alaska. What started as an outdoor adventure turned into a lasting mystery when the three men were reported overdue. Mestre was reportedly wearing a purple fleece jacket with a green collar, army-style pants, and a red pullover windbreaker at the time of his disappearance. The trio's failure to return prompted immediate concern, leading to the initiation of search efforts in the expansive and often treacherous bay. Despite the diligent searches conducted in the area, no signs of Mestre, Gershbein, or Orbik were ever discovered. The Alaska State Troopers were the investigating agency for this case, which was officially reported on June 1, 1992. The lack of any physical evidence or witnesses left authorities to theorize about what may have transpired. The prevailing belief is that the three men likely drowned in the turbulent waters of Kachemak Bay. The case remains a somber reminder of the unforgiving nature of the Alaskan wilderness and the suddenness with which tragedy can strike. Without any wreckage from the canoe or belongings of the men ever being recovered, the exact circumstances surrounding the disappearance of Melvin Mestre, Jr., Robert Gershbein, and Daniel Orbik remain unknown. The absence of closure has left a void for the families and a haunting question mark in the records of Alaskan missing persons cases.

May 31, 1992

Homer

Alaska

Kenai Peninsula Borough

No

77882

Alaska State Troopers

Anchorage

Alaska

Anchorage Borough

99507

Malia Miller

Missing Persons Clearinghouse Manager

5700 East Tudor Road, Alaska

9072695511

State

Law Enforcement

920036448

1992-06-01

Alaska State Troopers

Brown

Brown

Brown

07/17/2026