Unfortunately, very little is known about Ernie Joe Tate or his disappearance.

Ernie was last officially seen on August 12, 1996 when he left his home after an argument with his wife. He was last in contact with his mother two days later, on August 14, 1996. While speaking on the phone, Ernie seemed very upset about marital difficulties he was having with his wife and about an upcoming court date regarding his alleged participation in a home burglary that he had pleaded not guilty to. After speaking with his mother, Ernie has not been seen or heard from since.

Where the case stands today.

Ernie has remained missing for over 26 years. If found today, Ernie would be around 59 years old. His case remains unsolved, as authorities have not received any new information that they can further investigate. Authorities believe that Ernie left his home in a silver and black 1988 Eagle Premier, which is also missing.

At the time of his disappearance in 1996, Ernie was described as a 33 year old caucasian man with brown hair and blue eyes. He was 6’ tall and weighed approximately 185 lbs. Ernie has tattoos on his left arm, left shoulder, upper left arm, chest, and right hand. He has scars on his left foot and right thigh. If you have any information regarding Ernie's disappearance or his whereabouts, please contact the Johnson County Sheriff's Office at (479) 754-7810.