IPSWICH — On National Missing Persons Day, which was Feb. 3, Ipswich police announced they are seeking the public’s help on a 50-year-old missing persons case of Ipswich resident Ernest Deangelis.
On Dec. 15, 1976, 28-year-old Ernest Deangelis was at his home in Ipswich when he received a phone call, got dressed, told his mother he would be back in a few hours, and then got into his car and left. Deangelis was never seen again.
The case went cold after the initial investigation turned up no leads and remained largely untouched for years, until Ipswich police Detective Ted Gallivan reopened the investigation in the spring of 2025, police said.
With assistance from the FBI and the Massachusetts State Police Unresolved Case Unit, Ipswich police have since been actively investigating Deangelis’ disappearance.
As a part of the renewed investigation, the FBI has created an age progression photograph showing what Deangelis might look like today.
“This National Missing Persons Day, we are hoping to bring answers and closure to Ernest’s family, friends and our entire community,” Chief Paul Nikas said. “After 50 years, even the smallest detail could make a difference, and we urge anyone with information to contact our department.”
Anyone with information that may assist investigators is asked to contact Detective Gallivan at egallivan@ipswichpolice.org.