Denise Ordene Fraley, 30, was last seen in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in the early hours of September 12, 1982, after she and her estranged husband, David Fraley, performed with their band at a private party. Accounts conflict about whether Denise was seen leaving the party or later at home; David’s statements to investigators were inconsistent and he admitted drinking and possibly using drugs that night, which he said affected his memory.

The marriage had a history of domestic violence; David filed for divorce in May 1982 and a restraining order was entered, although the couple had tried to reconcile and spent Labor Day weekend together shortly before Denise vanished. After her disappearance David gave changing explanations to family, once alleging Denise had stolen drug money and suggesting Mafia involvement. Denise’s family did not report her missing for over a month, and her daughter, then a toddler, made statements implying Denise had been killed, but those claims were never substantiated.

No charges have been filed and Denise’s body has never been found; foul play is strongly suspected. Anyone with information about Denise’s last known movements or the night of September 11–12, 1982, is asked to come forward.