The Disappearance of Daniel Reaves

Daniel Reaves has been missing since May 4th, 2008. The then-25-year-old was last seen by his girlfriend Sara, at her home in Madison, Indiana. The two spent the evening of May 3rd watching television before Sara dosed to sleep off around midnight. 

When Sara awoke around 4am, Daniel was gone—but she noticed that she had a text from him, which simply said “I love you.” This is the last known contact from Daniel; Sara tried calling him back five minutes later, but he did not answer. Daniel has never been seen or heard from again.

A week after his disappearance, Daniel’s car was found abandoned near Clifty Falls State Park. The car was unlocked, and Daniel’s wallet containing his credit cards and identification were inside. However, his keys and cell phone were missing. 

Clifty Falls is a popular hiking spot for the locals in Madison, but Daniel’s family members do not believe that he would go hiking at 4:00 AM without telling anybody. A massive search was launched in the park after the discovery of Daniel’s car, but authorities reportedly found “nothing in the park that was tied to Daniel Reaves.” Due to this, Daniel’s family members have questioned whether or not it was actually Daniel who left his car at the park. His family members also do not believe he would leave his identification behind on a hike.

Those closest to Daniel do not believe that he was depressed at the time of his disappearance, and none of his loved ones are aware of any personal problems he was having in his life. Authorities believe that somebody out there has information that could lead to answers in Daniel’s case. 

If you have any information that could help the investigation, please contact the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department or 812-265-2648 or the Indiana State Police at 812-689-5000.

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Sources:
Charley Project
Madison Courier
Study of Indiana Cold Cases
WAVE 3