Patty was last seen on Christmas day in 1996. Her estranged husband, J.R., told authorities at that time that Patty left the home following a heated argument.
The following day, her van was found deserted 20 miles away from her home. Although the carpet was still wet from being shampooed, the police recovered blood evidence in the van. More blood was found in Patty’s home. DNA tests confirmed both to be Patty’s blood.