Ethan Benjamin Ristow, 37, went missing on August 21, 2021, after becoming separated from his wife and two young sons in desert terrain near East Shea Boulevard and the Beeline Highway, the border between Fountain Hills and the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. He was last seen wearing green and black pants, black boots, no shirt, and eyeglasses. His vehicle was later found abandoned near the location where he was last seen.

Reports say Ethan may have left on foot as dusk approached to seek help after the family vehicle reportedly experienced trouble; witnesses the day before, August 20, described him appearing to be in distress in a Fountain Hills neighborhood. Searches by the Salt River Police Department, other agencies and family members have used foot teams, canine units, drones and helicopters but have not produced any definitive leads. The involvement of tribal land at his last known location has complicated procedures.

No public resolution has been reported. If anyone saw Ethan around August 20–21, 2021, or has information about his movements near East Shea Boulevard and the Beeline Highway, please come forward.