Albert Vigneau was 30 and from Warwick, Rhode Island, when he disappeared on October 30, 1980, along with associate Gregory Georgantis. The two were last seen conducting business related to precious metals and reportedly were to purchase $5,000 worth of gold and silver in Johnston. The next day Vigneau’s car was found near T.F. Green Airport in Warwick with its doors unlocked and valuables left in plain sight.

Authorities have long believed the disappearances were linked to organized crime and think both men were likely victims of a mob-related homicide intended as a warning to a businessman named Ken Knowles, who had become embroiled in a competitive feud in the precious metals trade. Several similar disappearances from that period have been tied to criminal enterprises. Neither Vigneau nor Georgantis has been found and no arrests have been reported; the case remains unsolved.