UPDATE FROM MICHAEL'S BROTHER, TYLER
4h ·
Hi all,
I wanted to share an update, as I know many of you have been anxiously awaiting news about whether the human remains recently discovered near Redondo Beach would be a match to my missing brother,
Mike Vanzandt.
We recently learned from the LA Coroner’s Office that a dental exam determined it was NOT Michael. This news is emotionally complex for many of us, as the closure we sought would also have meant facing the finality we fear most. We are grateful to the Coroner’s Office and the PVPD for their assistance.
Michael has been missing from Hermosa Beach, CA, since March 2016. There are still NO evidence or leads about how he disappeared. Over the years, our family has occasionally faced situations like this one. Each time, it’s an emotional rollercoaster, leaving us with no answers and our hearts further hardened. This was no exception.
In this particular case, due to the prevailing narrative around his disappearance, the speculation was picked up by several news outlets and social media groups. Many hypothesized that there was a strong chance it was him. This reignited many emotions we first experienced eight years ago, and we began bracing ourselves for the worst. Michael’s children, now young adults, also got a front-row seat to the often insensitive nature of internet comment sections, while also witnessing the immense love for their dad and the continued support for our family.
While we didn’t find him, I am thankful that more people now know his story and that the possibility still remains that we reunite with him some day. We will continue putting one foot in front of the other, sharing his story, and looking for him. We hope you will continue to do the same.
As the holiday season approaches, I encourage you to treasure your loved ones, to be grateful, and to remember that many people are quietly facing challenges we cannot see or appreciate. Let’s approach one another with compassion and choose kindness.