In the early hours of May 24, 1994, a young man named Erik Sol Patchin vanished without a trace in Florida, and authorities need tips in this case.
Patchin, a 20-year-old Caucasian male with brown hair and brown eyes, was last seen leaving a bar in Tallahassee with a female friend after attending a poetry reading.
Patchin, also known as “Domino E” and “Frog,” had a distinct appearance with his mullet-style haircut.
At the time of his disappearance, he stood 5’10” tall and weighed approximately 160 pounds. He was last seen wearing a black shirt, green khaki shorts, and tan size 10 Dickie’s hiking boots with a molded rubber lug sole.
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Notably, Patchin had a quarter-sized burn scar on the back of his right hand.
Shortly after parting ways with his friend, Patchin drove alone to Jefferson County, Florida.
However, just a few hours later, his silver 1972 Volkswagen Beetle was discovered abandoned in the parking lot of a Jr. Food Store on US 27 South and Chaires Cross Road.
The vehicle contained some personal items, including Patchin’s skateboard and a book of poetry he had written. There were no signs of forced entry, leaving investigators puzzled.
The manager of the Jr. Food Store claimed to have seen Patchin at the store two days prior to his disappearance, in the company of individuals she described as a “motorcycle gang.”
This information raised suspicions, as it was believed that Patchin may have been involved with drug dealers who frequented the Moore/Washington quarters near the store.
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Authorities explored the possibility that Patchin had been shot to death by these individuals, but the connection remained unclear.
Law enforcement agencies, including the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, have dedicated extensive efforts to solving Patchin’s case.
Unfortunately, despite multiple leads and searches for evidence in the surrounding area, no significant breakthroughs have been made. Investigators faced challenges in connecting drug dealers to Patchin’s disappearance, and one potential suspect died while in prison, leaving their involvement uncertain.
Patchin, a Lloyd, Florida resident, was an English student at Tallahassee Community College. He also worked as a part-time disc jockey for the college radio station, V89 89.7 FM. Patchin had a passion for writing and skateboarding.
Patchin’s disappearance has left a lasting impact on his family, friends, and the community. Loved ones have tirelessly sought answers, hoping for closure after more than two decades of uncertainty.
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The case continues to be actively investigated, and any new information is vital in bringing resolution to Patchin’s loved ones.
If you have information on this case, please call the Big Bend Crime Stoppers at (850) 574-8477 or click the tips form here.
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