Cold Case Files: After an argument with a neighbor in 2017, Michael Elkinton vanished into thin air
- Dennis McCaslin
- 2 minutes ago
- 1 min read
Occurring along a secluded gravel road in rural Pope County, the mysterious disappearance of Michael Elkinton, a Vietnam War veteran, remains unresolved. Last spotted in mid-July 2017 at his isolated cabin near the Ozark National Forest, his abrupt vanishing has left his family yearning for closure.
On July 17, 2017, Elkinton allegedly clashed with his neighbor, Billy Black, prompting a response from the Pope County Sheriff's Office, which documented the incident. Shortly after, Elkinton seemed to disappear without a trace.
Days later, his daughter visited his cabin and discovered an eerie scene--his boots, cigarettes, an open beer can, wallet, and hat abandoned inside, with the door left ajar and no sign of her father.
Elkinton had mentioned plans to travel to Alaska prior to his disappearance. Authorities speculate he might have left on foot or been given a ride, though they lean away from suspecting foul play. His family, however, remains unconvinced and persists in seeking answers.
Jennifer Elkinton, his daughter, has tirelessly revisited her father’s last known movements, clinging to hope for a breakthrough. “I miss every part of him,” she shared in a statement, determined that a key piece of evidence will surface.
Despite extensive searches and investigations, Elkinton has not been seen or heard from since.
If you possess any information regarding Michael Elkinton’s location, please reach out to the Pope County Sheriff's Department at 479-968-2558.
