Matthew Ferris
Matthew John Ferris
Age at Report: 20
DOB: November 15, 1970
Weight: 140 lbs.
Height: 5′ 10″
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Blue
Incident Type: Endangered / physical
Missing From: Des Moines, IA
Polk County
NCIC Number: M-478282492
Missing Since: March 7, 1991
Matthew Ferris was reported missing to the Des Moines Police Department on March 7, 1991.
Ferris first disappeared from his hometown of Des Moines, Iowa, on July 25, 1990. He told his family he needed the day off work to help a friend move; his father later discovered a note from Ferris at the family’s home, in which his son apologized for any pain his disappearance may cause his loved ones. Ferris returned to Iowa one week later, apparently frightened.
Ferris underwent psychiatric treatment for the next six months. He also enrolled at Iowa State University.
Ferris was last seen by his family in February 1991. He was behaving abnormally, and Ferris’ father stated he seemed to be exhibiting manic behavior and was happy, which was unlike Ferris’ character at the time.
After telling his family he was going to the movies, Ferris disappeared. He apparently headed to Custer State Park in South Dakota. His family believes that Ferris elected to travel to that destination because he enjoyed Native American folklore.
Ferris was never heard from again, and was reported missing on March 7, 1991.
If you have any information concerning Ferris’ whereabouts, please contact the Des Moines Police Department at 515-283-4800.
IDPS Missing Persons Clearinghouse
The Doe Network
Concerning the above case for Matthew John Ferris.
There is a case listed on the Doe Network that is of a man, matching Matt’s description who was found 6 months after Matt went missing. The interesting item which caught my eye was that the car they found of this young man’s was bought in North Dakota. His parents reported he had been in South Dakota. The age/height/weight are all possible matches and the hair/composite sketch seem to look alike.
The case number is: The Doe Network:
Case File 502UMAL
1 2
Reconstruction of Victim
Unidentified White Male
The victim was discovered on December 21, 1991 in Dekalb County, Alabama
Estimated Time of Death: August 1991
The man died from asphyxiation caused by hanging, which was ruled a suicide.
Skeletal Remains
Thought I would submit this possibility. Thanks for considering this and I hope it helps!
Thank you, Terri, for making us aware of the similarities. I couldn’t help but notice them as well, and have submitted the information to the IA Dept. of Public Safety for review. Thank you for taking the time to alert us!