Paul Joseph Knockel, 53, disappeared from Dubuque, Iowa, after failing to show up for Thanksgiving dinner on November 26, 1990. Family described him as family-oriented, leading a simple life and relying on relatives for help managing finances because of a mild intellectual disability. When relatives checked his home they found his wallet, watch, and shoes, but Knockel and his maroon 1981 Mercury Zephyr were gone. The car was briefly seen near Route 151 before it vanished.

Searches turned up nothing for decades. In October 2023 the vehicle was recovered from the Mississippi River near the Hawthorne Boat Ramp in Dubuque, but no human remains were inside. Investigators report no strong indications of foul play, and Knockel’s whereabouts remain unknown. His family continues to seek closure and hopes for new information that could explain what happened.

If anyone knew Paul, saw his car in late 1990, or has information about his movements in Dubuque, please come forward.