California Octogenarian’s Disappearance Linked to Crypto Wealth

Law enforcement authorities in California are investigating the suspicious disappearance of an 80-year-old man, with digital assets emerging as a potential motive. The victim, identified only as Hou, vanished after leaving his home without his phone on a Monday in early May. His abandoned vehicle was later discovered NEAR a hiking trail in Rancho Cucamonga.

Investigators from the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department have uncovered evidence of substantial fraudulent activity involving Hou's bank accounts. An unidentified suspect allegedly contacted the family using Hou's phone in an attempt to impersonate him. While no arrests have been made, authorities suspect foul play may be involved.

Hou's son, Wen Hou, has offered a $250,000 reward for information leading to his father's safe return. The younger Hou, who serves as CIO of crypto investment firm Coincident Capital, believes perpetrators stole his father's identity and drained over $1 million from his accounts. The case highlights growing concerns about crypto-related crimes targeting high-net-worth individuals in the digital asset space.