Vanished Without a Trace: The Unsettling Disappearance of Ricky Lynn Benton

A Veteran's Quiet Life in Oklahoma City

Ricky Lynn Benton, a 62-year-old Native American man, led a modest life in Oklahoma City. A military veteran and member of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, Benton resided on Northwest 8th Street with his beloved dogs. He was known to wear wire-framed glasses and had distinctive green eyes and black hair. Despite facing health challenges, including diabetes and a leg amputation requiring a prosthetic, Benton maintained his independence and routine .

The Day He Disappeared

In July 2019, Benton's routine was disrupted when he missed a scheduled appointment at the Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital. Concerned by this uncharacteristic behavior, his family visited his home, only to find his dogs and all personal belongings left behind. There were no signs of forced entry or struggle, and Benton had not informed anyone of plans to leave. This sudden disappearance raised alarms, as it was out of character for someone who valued his daily structure and responsibilities .

Health Concerns and Vulnerabilities

Benton's health conditions added urgency to the search efforts. As a diabetic, missing medical appointments could have serious implications for his well-being. Additionally, his reliance on a prosthetic leg meant that mobility without it would be challenging. These factors contributed to the classification of his case as "endangered missing," emphasizing the potential risks he faced without access to necessary medical care and support .

Investigative Efforts and Public Appeals

The Oklahoma City Police Department took charge of the investigation, registering the case under number 19-21435. Despite efforts, including checking local hospitals, shelters, and outreach to the community, no substantial leads emerged. Benton's case was also entered into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) as case #MP65378, aiming to broaden the search and gather information from a wider network ....Read More

Share

Comments (0)

Leave A Comment