Missing Kansas Man Writes Goodbye Letters To Family While Dying Trapped In Car

A missing Kansas man was found dead in his car that had crashed to the bottom of a steep ravine. The crash scene showed what how he spent his dying days — writing goodbye letters to his family.

David Welch was found on October 18, dead in his van that had crashed in an isolated area in eastern Utah. The crash was more than 50 miles from any town, and police believe that Welch was trapped inside the car for several days at the bottom of the 50-foot ravine.

The discovery ended a search for the missing Kansas man that began in early September, when Welch first went missing from his home in Manhattan, Kansas.

His family, who had no idea of where Welch had gone, put flyers around their neighborhood and even started a Facebook group called “Find Dave Welch.” They asked people to drive a few extra blocks a day, looking for Welch — all without knowing that he was really hundreds of miles away.

Many left messages for Dave on the Facebook page, hoping the missing Kansas man might check it.

“Dear Dave, it has been 7 weeks since you left. Your wife, children and grandchildren miss you more than the sky is high. Your classmates and friends are concerned for your health and want to help. As we sit at home tonight with tears welling up; Our hearts aching, we wonder where you are. We only pray that you see this message and ask God to bring you home soon. We love you!”

Police believe Welch fell asleep at the wheel while he was driving near a curve, sending the car crashing far from the view of the road. When it came to rest, Dave was trapped, unable to get out.

“It is very desolate,” said Utah Highway Patrol trooper Gary Riches.

Inside the car police found letters Welch had written for his wife and adult children.

Police and family members have remained quiet on why the missing Kansas man was driving through Utah, or what was written in the letters.