Ep 8. Hometown Hero

In this episode of Disappeared, titled "Hometown Hero," the focus is on the case of 28-year-old Brian Barton, a minor league baseball player who vanished without a trace from his hometown of Pace, Florida in 2005. Brian had been the pride of his community, known for his exceptional athleticism and charming personality. He was a rising star in the world of baseball, and his family and friends were stunned when he suddenly disappeared.

As the episode begins, we learn that Brian had returned to Pace after being released from a minor league team in California. He had recently broken up with his girlfriend and seemed to be struggling with depression and anxiety. Nevertheless, he was excited to be back home with his loved ones, including his mother, stepfather, and younger brother.

On the night of March 10, 2005, Brian went out with a group of friends to a local bar. Witnesses report that he seemed to be in good spirits, drinking and socializing with those around him. However, later in the evening, he got into an altercation with two men in the parking lot. Witnesses say that Brian was badly beaten and left lying on the ground, bleeding and unconscious.

When his friends went looking for him later that night, they found no trace of Brian. His car was still in the parking lot, but his keys and cell phone were missing. His family became increasingly worried as the hours turned into days and there was no sign of him. The police launched an investigation, but they found few leads and no solid evidence.

Over the years, various theories have emerged about what might have happened to Brian. Some believe that the men who attacked him that night were involved in his disappearance. Others speculate that Brian may have committed suicide in the wake of his breakup and baseball career setback. Still others believe that he simply left town to start a new life elsewhere.

In "Hometown Hero," the Disappeared team interviews Brian's family, friends, and law enforcement officials who worked on the case. We see home videos and family photos that showcase Brian's bright personality and talent on the baseball field. We also hear from other missing persons experts who offer their insights and theories about the case.

The episode is emotionally charged, as we see the impact that Brian's disappearance has had on his loved ones. His mother, in particular, is a strong and determined advocate for her son, doing everything she can to keep his memory alive and to hold those accountable who may have been involved in his disappearance. Her courage and strength in the face of such heartbreak is truly inspiring.

Despite years of searching and investigating, Brian's whereabouts remain unknown. "Hometown Hero" leaves us with many questions and much sadness about the fate of this young man who was so full of promise and potential. It's a sobering reminder of the many cases of missing persons that go unsolved, despite the best efforts of law enforcement and dedicated family members.