Family Finds Closure After Missing Son’s Remains Are Identified in Modoc County; Authorities Continue Investigation into Nicholas Patterson’s Disappearance

Modoc County, CA — April 7, 2025 — For nearly five years, the Patterson family lived a nightmare—a world of uncertainty and despair. Their son, Nicholas Patterson, a 26-year-old member of the Pit River Tribe, vanished on January 9, 2020, leaving behind only unanswered questions and a growing void in the hearts of those who loved him.

The family’s ordeal finally reached a devastating conclusion when authorities confirmed the remains found in the Modoc County wilderness in May 2024 belonged to Nicholas. The news was both heartbreaking and, in some ways, a form of closure. But for those who had hoped for a different ending, the pain was still raw.

A Long Wait for Answers

Nicholas Patterson’s disappearance in early 2020 sent shockwaves through his community. He was last seen on January 9, and after that, there was radio silence. No calls, no messages—nothing. His family searched tirelessly, reaching out to friends, local authorities, and even organizing volunteer search parties. Despite their efforts, his whereabouts remained unknown.

Authorities found some of Nicholas’s belongings, but his jacket and beanie were never recovered. Despite the best efforts of local law enforcement, there were no significant leads to follow. As the months passed and hope began to wane, his family was left in agony, not knowing if Nicholas was lost in the wilderness, hurt, or worse.

In May 2024, nearly four years after his disappearance, skeletal remains were discovered in the Modoc County wilderness. The discovery was made by a hiker in a remote area that had been difficult to access, and the remains were sent for identification. It wasn’t until almost a year later, in March 2025, that DNA testing and the identification of tattoos, which honored his Pit River Tribe heritage, confirmed the remains belonged to Nicholas Patterson.

A Legacy Remembered

Nicholas’s tattoos—symbols that reflected his deep connection to his roots—played a crucial role in confirming his identity. They spoke of his pride in being a member of the Pit River Tribe, a community known for its rich culture and traditions. His family remembers him as a kind soul with a generous spirit, always willing to lend a hand to those in need. He had dreams of building a better future for himself and his community, dreams that were tragically cut short.

“The pain of not knowing where he was, or what happened, was unbearable,” said his mother, who has been the pillar of the family’s search efforts over the years. “But knowing he’s no longer out there alone in the wilderness brings some peace. We can finally start the healing process.”

The Ongoing Investigation

While the identification of Nicholas’s remains has brought some closure, questions remain unanswered. His disappearance and the circumstances surrounding his death are still under investigation by the Modoc County Sheriff’s Office.

The sheriff’s office is seeking the public’s help in piecing together the puzzle of what happened to Nicholas. Was he the victim of foul play, or did he succumb to the harsh conditions of the wilderness? The sheriff’s office has not ruled out either possibility, but the case remains open.

Authorities are calling on anyone with information to come forward. “There are still so many unknowns,” said Sheriff’s Deputy Clara Fields. “If anyone saw something, knows something, or has information that might help us understand what happened to Nicholas, we need to hear from you.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Modoc County Sheriff’s Office at (530) 233-4416. Authorities are especially interested in hearing from anyone who may have seen Nicholas before his disappearance or in the area around the time he went missing.

A Family’s Pain and Plea for Justice

The Patterson family, while devastated by the confirmation of their son’s death, continues to press for answers. They hold on to the hope that justice will eventually be served, and they are determined to honor Nicholas’s memory in the process.

“We miss him every day. Our family isn’t the same without him,” said his father, his voice choked with emotion. “We just want to know what happened and make sure whoever is responsible is held accountable.”

The family is also working to raise awareness about missing persons in their community, hoping that their son’s story can help prevent others from going through the same torment. They’ve spoken out at community gatherings, urging law enforcement and the public to be vigilant and proactive in addressing cases of missing individuals.

Rest in Peace, Nicholas

As the investigation continues, Nicholas Patterson’s family clings to the hope that the truth will come to light, bringing justice and finally answering the questions that have plagued them for so long. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who seek justice for missing persons and their families.

The Patterson family extends their gratitude to those who have supported them through this difficult time and ask anyone who can help in the investigation to step forward. As they mourn their son’s tragic fate, they stand united in their love for Nicholas and their determination to see this case through to the end.

Rest in peace, Nicholas Patterson. You will not be forgotten.

For updates on the investigation, or if you have information to share, please contact the Modoc County Sheriff’s Office at (530) 233-4416.