Kerry Patterson

Kerry Patterson

In 1980, Kerry Patterson was 15 years old and had just moved, with her family, to Fullerton, CA from Cerritos, CA. On June 26, 1980, she left her home to meet with friends from Cerritos at an ice cream parlor in Fullerton known as the Ice Cream Castle. It was approximately a mile from her home. After the meeting, one of her friends gave her a ride home on his bicycle. He left her near her home and continued on his way. This was the last time she was seen. Her family reported her missing.


On December 27, 1980, Kerry’s skull, her femur and two other bones were found near Tonner Canyon near the 57 freeway. This area was 12 miles from where she was last seen. Her cause of death is undetermined but Orange County Sheriff’s are asking the public for any information regarding this murder.




In 2020, a witness who was in the area at the time of the disappearance came forward to say they saw a man in the area at the time. This witness was able to help create a composite sketch. This sketch has been released and the man is considered another possible witness at this time. Sheriff’s need anyone who recognizes the man or knows anything about the disappearance and murder of Kerry Patterson to come forward.


If you have information about this crime please call Cold Case Sheriff Detective Bob Taft at 714-647-7045 or email coldcase@ocsheriff.gov. Anonymous tips can be submitted at 855-TIP-OCSS.