Donald Lake, a 31-year-old white male and U.S. Army veteran, disappeared under suspicious circumstances in December 1982. At the time, he was living with his mother in San Francisco, California. His older brother, Leonard Lake, unexpectedly visited and invited Donald on a road trip. Despite being described as a kind and gentle individual, Donald had a strained relationship with Leonard, who reportedly referred to him as a 'leech' in conversations with his ex-wife.
After departing with Leonard, Donald was never seen again. Concerned, their mother reported him missing. Leonard resurfaced alone on January 1, 1983, renting a room in Golden Gate Park. Authorities suspect that Leonard murdered Donald, although his body was never found.
Leonard Lake later partnered with Charles Ng in a series of heinous crimes, including abduction, torture, and murder of multiple victims. Their crimes came to light in 1985 when Leonard was arrested and subsequently committed suicide by ingesting cyanide. Charles Ng was later convicted and sentenced to death for his role in the murders.
Donald Lake's disappearance is considered the first in a series of murders committed by Leonard Lake and Charles Ng. Despite the lack of physical evidence, authorities strongly believe that Donald was one of their victims.
