The butterfly boy: A mother’s quest for justice 44 years after her son’s disappearance

Peggy Foley still remembers the sound of her son’s laugh. It was a deep and infectious laugh that filled the room with joy. He loved to make jokes and have fun. He was a bright and happy 10-year-old boy who had just earned good grades at school.

But on April 7, 1979, everything changed. Randy Parscale went missing while running along a trail with his cousins in Peppersauce Canyon in Oracle, Arizona. He was spending the day with his grandfather and other relatives, celebrating his academic achievement. But when his grandfather called them back to the car, Randy never showed up.

Hundreds of people searched for him in the rugged terrain, but no sign of him was ever found. Law enforcement suspected he was kidnapped, as they found tire marks on a dirt road and K-9 dogs traced his scent to a nearby highway. But no leads or suspects ever emerged.

Photo byPamela Mettler

Now, 44 years later, Randy’s disappearance remains a mystery and a heartache for his family. His mother and sister, who now live in Texas, have never given up hope of finding out what happened to him. They have also found purpose in raising awareness about child safety and honoring Randy’s memory.

“He was a very special person and he touched a lot of lives,” Foley said. “We all take a lot for granted in our lives and life itself, we take for granted. When you lose someone and it touches you so deeply, you really start realizing how precious life is.”

Foley said she still believes someone out there knows something about Randy’s fate and she urges them to come forward.

“Please, if you have any information, no matter how small or insignificant you think it is, please call 88-CRIME,” she said. “It could be the missing piece of the puzzle that could bring closure to us and justice to Randy.”

Randy’s case is still open and anyone with information can call 88-CRIME or visit www.88crime.org.