Clayton Simmonds, an individual suffering from mental illness, was last spotted in St. Thomas of the Virgin Islands on September 22, 1994. According to sources, Simmonds had previously lived in a group home, but was asked to leave due to his inability to adhere to the rules. Following his departure, he resorted to living on the streets, and later stayed at the Eldra Schulterbrandt Living Facility, a long-term care home for those with mental illness. Simmonds maintained occasional contact with his family. However, it wasn't until 2000 or slightly earlier, approximately five to six years after his last sighting, that he was officially reported missing.

Simmonds frequented various places on St. Thomas, including Fort Mylner and Estate Tutu, and also visited the neighboring island of St. Croix. Owing to his transient lifestyle, it remains unclear as to when he disappeared exactly. The exact circumstances surrounding his disappearance also remain shrouded in mystery.