Patricia Elayne Action, 25, vanished from the Ramada Inn Lounge on U.S. 19 and State Route 60 in Clearwater, Florida, on May 26, 1978. That evening she had been drinking with coworkers after receiving her paycheck; at about 11:30 p.m. she told friends she was going to the bathroom, took her purse with her, and did not return. Her family reported her missing the next day.

On June 1, 1978, Patricia’s white 1969 Chevrolet Malibu was found abandoned in a Tarpon Springs parking lot. Investigators reported a substantial amount of type O blood on the front seat and floorboard, consistent with a serious injury. The blood type matched Patricia’s but could not be definitively proven to be hers. Her shoes were inside the car, while her purse and car keys were missing.

Patricia had recently moved back with her parents after a divorce and an illness that caused her to leave Stetson University. She was working as a waitress at the Kapok Tree Inn and trying to rebuild her life when she disappeared. Foul play is strongly suspected and her case remains unsolved.

Anyone who knew Patricia, saw her that night, or has information about the car found in Tarpon Springs is asked to come forward.