Robert Vanderkar, 34, was working as a camera operator on Magnum, P.I. in mid-November 1980 when the Hughes 369D helicopter carrying him and the pilot crashed into the Pacific about a quarter of a mile off Kaaawa Beach Park on Oahu’s northeastern shore. The pilot survived and was rescued; Vanderkar was not immediately found. An extensive search and rescue operation combed the waters and coastline, but no sign of him or his body was ever recovered.

He was reported wearing a khaki long-sleeved shirt, blue jeans, and white tennis shoes; height, weight and eye color were estimated in the official report. The National Transportation Safety Board investigated the crash. The disappearance remains unresolved and Vanderkar was declared missing.

If anyone knew Robert, worked on that production, or has information about the crash or search, please share what is known.