About
Map the Missing is dedicated to tracking cases of people who disappeared with their vehicles. The project focuses on cases where both the person and vehicle remain missing, often for years.
Since 2020, there has been a noticeable rise in recoveries of missing people found inside submerged vehicles. Many of them had been missing for decades. These recoveries have been aided by advances in sonar technology, as well as growing public awareness and the work of volunteer search teams.
In many of these cases, a vehicle can be difficult to conceal long-term unless it is underwater, in extreme terrain, or connected to foul play. Water recoveries have become a recurring outcome in long unsolved cases.
The main map began as a personal project in early 2021. In 2022, this website was launched to make it easier to find and hold more resources.
In 2023, a Facebook page was created to spread awareness and provide updates on new cases, recoveries, and search efforts.
Charley Project and Namus have been valuable in finding these cases.
Sonar Information
FAQ
What is the criteria for cases to be added here?
Every case involves a person missing with a vehicle, or suspected to be missing with a vehicle.
For various reasons, missing and resolved cases may not get added until they are past 6 months, unless requested by a family member.
How can I help?
Raising awareness is the best and easiest way to help!
A printable flyer is available on the home page that links to this site through a QR code so it can be posted for any case.
The idea for these is that they can be placed at boat ramps, marinas, bait shops and anywhere that people with the equipment to help search will see them.
Donations are accepted and appreciated but not expected, 100% of the funds will go towards this, most likely site expenses.
If you’d like to help with the site or have ideas on ways it can better serve these cases please reach out.
Who is behind this website?
My name is Brianna, I was 22 when I began this site and a college student working towards a degree in Biology. I started looking into these cases out of curiosity when sonar search teams on Youtube began finding them, never expecting so many. For a lot of these cases, loved ones are still searching for answers even after decades, and that has kept me going.
Shelly Ranae has also been a great friend and key supporter since the start, and Julia Meyer has helped extensively with international cases and research since 2025.
How can I contact you?
If you have feedback or information the best way to contact me is here through the form below, by emailing renaebris@gmail.com or through the Mapthemissing FB page.
