My thought just kept revolving around the fact that had this man not cared so much about his friend the family would have NEVER known what happened to their son/brother!! And how many times does this happen and there is no resolution? So sad so incredibly sad. I still wonder did he go to the doctor and know he was about to have a heart attack? Why didnt he take care of the blockage? So many questions. . .
Assuming that he knew he had a heart condition.....His dad had died of a massive heart attack, so he might have thought that it was inevitable that he would die the same way.
What a sharp woman she is. The mothers yearning to know “right now” (the urgency in her voice and in her answers about her health, and being alone) were equally as heartbreaking to me. She wasn’t about to let them off the phone without hearing what they knew about her son. So terribly sad. Tho, it sounded like his mother had possibly come to terms a long time before (she said “its been a long time”). What a crazy, sad, senseless story. I’ll bet that was the shock of their lives to find out that he’d disappeared intentionally (I’m sure they’d pondered foul play), and had been living under an assumed identity (that’s just unheard of, and especially for such a petty crime! It isn’t like he murdered someone in cold blood and was looking at a life or death sentence!). What a great guy Dylan is too. I have to wonder if he felt a different sense of loss once he finally had the answers he’d sought for so long? James’ story has to have been such a big part of Dylan’s life for it to have come to such an abrupt and final ending (I mean he knew the “final” ending, Mike/James’ death, but the hours.. years.. he spent on this for it just to be over).. with some, but not all, of his questions answered. And so senseless! My God! 😫 Seems like such a sad, and empty ending. Excellent documentary tho. I could’ve watched twice as long at least, and still have questions I wish he’d answered, but maybe will never be answered (like the connection to the name he assumed, like his prearranging his own funeral at such a young age, etc.). I hope not. I hope everyone involved has the answers THEY wanted and needed, and that the answers Dylan gifted to them (out of the kindness of his heart) finally brings them peace of mind and not more questioning or feelings of regret or sadness. (I’m not sure how I’d feel were this my own brother or son, so I question how they might feel.)
I work as a professional researcher and started my writing career doing true crime. You did an fantastic job running down "Mike's" real identity. It's such a shame that he chose such an elaborate charade to become "Mike". So sad to wonder how often he must have thought of his sister and mother and other family members he had to abandon so suddenly and know he could never see him again. You solved a mystery, and brought relief and closure to those lovely people. You persevered and you solved an elaborate mystery. Your comment about not really knowing who your friends are was poignant and thought-provoking. You did him a great honor and you brought him home. In the end, it didn't matter whose name he would sign, you WERE small town Ontario kids, but more importantly, you WERE a true friend.
Awesome investigation & indeed a true friend I! I myself come from criminalist studies background. Criminology College University of New Haven. Astonishing results of a difficult missing persons case.💓
He did judge in the beginning. He was angry, and had every right to be. He felt betrayed, lied to and conned. However, if he didn't judge to begin with, what motivation would inspire a person to press on for twelve years. Curiosity alone, isn't a fuel or engine for such determination. Nothing is wrong with judging, but what we do with, and how we use it in the end.
Wolfgang Kulik OCD my assterisk. He's a good person who's concerned about "Mike" and wants to get to the truth. It doesn't matter if they were friends, acquaintances, or strangers. And what's with giving your email address away? YOU are crazy in my book, Amadeus!
Why is nobody taking about him saying hello on the phone and waving with his hand at the same time. This is the most adorable gesture I have seen in a long time... ♥️
The investigator Dave is such a huge professional. The way he handled the call with James' mum was outstanding and really thoughtful. How he didn't want her to be alone when he broke the news. I think that's awesome. You can tell how he spoke with her that he had a ton of experience talking to family members like this.
I thought he could have done it even better. But it was ok. May be he could have used some intro, like "i am afraid the news isnt very good" something like that.
It's refreshing to see a documentary of this nature that is poignant, where the people are all good and decent. Even the missing man who committed crimes was a sympathetic figure who might have steered himself right over time. It must have meant so much to him to have a friend from back home. I admire the detective's empathy and skill in his handling of the phone calls and meeting.
There's a part of me who can't get over how selfish it is to take off and leave your family in turmoil forever like that though, seems more damaging than the financial crimes.
Sarah L Sarah L That’s the bit that still bothers me as well. I couldn’t imagine doing that to my family, regardless of what I did. They seemed like a really close and loving family too, making it all the more painful. I can’t imagine what his family has gone through all of these years, and will continue to go through the rest of their lives. It’s a heartbreaking situation all around. “Mike” didn’t seem like a particularly bad guy, and I don’t necessarily think he’s a horrible person, but I still don’t agree at all with what he did to everyone who cared about him, including Dylan. “Mike”/John seemed like a very lost individual who felt in over his head, but that doesn’t excuse his actions. You have to wonder what his side of the story was, and what his own reasonings were for going missing and leaving his entire life behind, including his loved ones. I also wonder if he ever planned to reach out to his family again at some point in the future. It’s so sad that his family never got that chance. My heart hurts for them and for Dylan. They all lost someone they loved and cared deeply about, and they all had to face the shock of all the lies coming to the surface, with all of the questions they will never know the answer to. God bless them!
Sometimes a person might do this to keep trouble away from the door of those they love. There are atill some odd questions unanswered about this case, but I think mainly the people involved were good people even Mike himself, he had certainly gor himself to a place where he was leading a quiet industrious life. Maybe he thought he couldn't land his mistakes on his family.
Watched this a couple of times and still it gets to me. Dylan is the sort of friend everyone needs. And Jim/Mike seemed to be someone who made such an impression on a friend, that the friend did so much to find the truth. Amazing story. Thank you.
Indeed. There's many of us that don't, though. Me included. I just have A feeling that no one I know would do this kind of thing if any foul play ever happened to me.
tall32guy it’s never too late to surround yourself with different people or one good person. It’s easy today to feel like we are a bit on our own isolated island & sometimes it’s true. Sometimes it is situational & I do hope that is the case for you.
It's been a couple years since I've watched this but it was recommended again and it's still as moving as ever. Thanks to all the Dylans out there for being Dylans.
I have a brother that went missing and this story is almost exactly like what we're are going thru. I hope my brother meets someone like Dylan that can give us answers in the future.
The detective is so professional. It’s different because he was missing for so long. What a guy, incredible. If it wasn’t for Dylan they never would have known
Imagine if he had managed to get abroad! And did he ever know his father died of a heart attack, and then to die of one himself and to pay for the funeral a week before..... Still some odd unanswered questions!
@@lozzylols that’s true they said something about he was paying for his funeral a week before he passed away in his apartment? He was either diagnosed buy some physician that he had a fully clogged artery and he wasn’t about to go under surgery to get it fixed or he was clairvoyant. I’m kidding but I’m not. This was a very interesting and good story it kept me glued to the screen. I feel bad for his mom and his sister.
Without Dylan, his family would never have known what happened to Jim. Just incredible odds - the Police got Dylan's number because he was a reference for Mike/Jim to get a passport - without that connection, Dylan would never have known Mike/Jim had died, or learned that he was living under an assumed identity. Then Dylan had the tenacity to keep on and on, searching, tracking every lead he had, until he found Mike's true identity. The odds against the Police finding Dylan's number, the odds against him dying so young that his death led to Dylan discovering his friend had given him a false name - and the massive odds against Dylan being the type of person to keep on looking for Mike/Jim's true identity - are just enormous. Although it's ultimately a tragic ending for the family, at least they know. They also know that he had a good job, he was living a reasonably happy life and he had friends around him, and one especially good and true friend in his life, and after his death - Dylan.
What an amazing documentary and moving story. It appears James knew he was sick, but probably didn't seek medical attention for fear of being discovered? No telling. Kudos to Dylan who never forgot his friend and the former detective who assisted him. Condolences to the family. What a sad ending.
Considering he died the exact same way as his father, if he knew about his father's death then it is possible he would already have the suspicion that he will one day share the same fate
This has to be one of the greatest documentaries I've ever seen. 100% thanks for your humanity, and hope you write a book or something about all this someday.
When Dylan was shaking after he found out Mike's missing person data, my heart was beating so hard I felt like I was in the journey too. 😭 What a wonderful documentary! Dylan is truly one of a kind, Mike is lucky to have him as friend. The ending is very touching.
Bry Halla again another person....thank you for putting "spoiler alert" at the beginning of your comment...awesome to read when I started the documentary and already knew how it would end
This was beautiful, the family was so grateful for Dylan coming forward and trying to search for those answers. Dylan is so damn pure... I hope that he and the family kept in touch after.
Wowww to my surprise, I was not expecting to see this type of documentary on TH-cam. It was refreshing to see such a caring and loving friend, Dylan, to endlessly research his deceased friend/co-worker and finally give Mike/Jim's family closure. The world needs more Dylans like him! Cheers to you, Dylan ✌🏼💚
This is one of the most emotional documentaries I have ever listened to or watched. I'm giving credit to the persistence of this guy that Never Let It Go regardless all those years of obstacles and setbacks. I want to send my sympathy to the mother and the daughter for accepting this news with Grace. I hope that we have closure with this information and move on with their lives.
I can't imagine going through something like this. But I once had a friend--my very best, closest friend--who, it turned out, had been embezzling and forging checks, etc. He was arrested and convicted. It taught me that no matter how close you think you are to someone, you ONLY know what they want you to know.
Dylan I truly admire your loyalty to your friend''s memory. Your courage to meet with his family leaves me breathless and I recognize how important your friendship was with Mike. Your a very kind and caring person Dylan. And I cry with you and hope that you have found peace & tranquility. Thank you for sharing.
The guy who was helping the filmmaker? I agree. I love how he spoke to the mother over the phone when they first called her and how he asked her specific questions in a specific manner concerning her well-being so that she wouldn't be overcome by the news. I thought it was very considerate. :)
Cleo Alviro - lol "security guard" ! ! That was a PRIVATE DETECTIVE ,there really is a huge difference between the two.This guy was a former police officer before opening his own ageny.He obviously had contacts and knew his stuff !Bet he ain't cheap lol.
@@lizhall4473 Cleo is talking about the Security Guard near the beginning of the film from about 1:50, only too happy to clear any misunderstanding Liz :o) regards, Paz.
@@SuperChoronzon Thanks Paz, I think I got a little confused 😕 between the two guys! Judging by the comments it seems I'm not the only one!! Love and light to you x
Absolutely phenomenal documentary. Dylan - I hope that you have found peace. Your filmmaking skills are amazing and the emotion portrayed by colour-grading etc was not lost on the audience. Well done 👏🏻
That phonecall was really sad... I think the sister knew what was what the second the PI said "was your brother", and she corrected him.... Dylan is a legend tho. We would all be so lucky to have a true mate like him.
That is called a real, true friend to Michael!! Looked and searched for Michael's real identity tooks a lot of time and effort!! So emotional!! I'm in teary tears.
I know Teresita! I wish i meet a friend like that! My life-long best friend stabbed me in the back horribly, so i lost my trust in friendship, but this proved to me they exist! TRUE FRIENDS ARE REAL! Love that guy.... best wishes to u Tere..
Daniela García My best friend did exactly the same Daniela. Dillon was a true friend. Not many like him. Very emotional ending. Take care of yourself. ❤
thats what most friends, so called bff's are doing, stabbing you in the back, mostly when u expect it the least....sad but true wy more often than not (happened also a few times in my life). And yes, what would I give for such a loyal friend like Dylan....
Linnéa n Yes he’s a good and carrying friend but he didn’t do his job as a journalist in the way he hid the info at the end that he tried to find out about in the beginning. Then when he has that info/ability to get it he doesn’t disclose it to us as well as doesn’t give and final conclusion on the mysterious aspect of the death. Makes me made and leaves me on a cliff hanger. Which sucks. I know he hate not knowing but now he left us all in that same place.
@@jhonfamo8412 The funeral business is a complete racket, we know that--but I can't imagine not being able to afford even a modest headstone. They're not that expensive.
@@richardernsberger5692 well start imagining. Loads of folks can not afford a "financed" plot, which is usually the real cost, and a head stone? Brother ,we the soon to be dead, do not need dirt or postion anyway. Memories is the best we can do. Hopefully through some universal influence on the living. Peace to u
Dylan is the epitome of a true friend. He treasured the relationship with Michael by wanting to know him more even after his passing. Very seldom does one meet a person with high regard and values on friendship. Both of them were destined to cross paths, be friends for a specific purpose. Dylan unable to accept Michael's passing from a heart failure led him to know his real identity. The information he learned uncovered why James became Michael. This also put an end to the 12 years of agony by James family. Putting to rest the doubts from their minds. Whether its faith, destiny or something else, I so thank you so much Dylan for doing what you did. Just seeing James mother and sister sigh of relief; is like giving them back an important part of themselves.
Perhaps he’s a hero,but just from the start of the film I got a different feel about the guy. He was lied to by a good friend,and it pissed him off that his whole time spent with Mike was a ruse. Nobody likes to be tricked,and he couldn’t handle the stories. He believed Mike and lived in a fantasy world for all he knew,perhaps it was to save his own sanity about reality that started this journey. He did this for him out of selfish reasons,and it had to do with being tricked. He was gonna figure out whether you knew it or not. Hero? Maybe. Friend? Possibly. Pissed? Definitely. Don’t think he did this out the goodness of his heart. He did this for his own need to know who tricked him into believing an illusion so well planned that it messed with his head. It is interesting and very strange story so far,I’ll let you know if I feel different,but for now this was Dylan needing to know he wasn’t insane. Have a good day and peace ✌️
Dylan turned white as a ghost during that phone call to the family; I've never seen someone do that so hard in real life. I just wanted to give him a hug. Annnnd I'm crying.
From the curiosity of what happened to your friend, to solving who he was, and giving his family and yourself closure. Great job! Thank you for sharing this story. I can only think there are millions of stories like this that will never be told.
What a great friend. Not many people would've done so much to get to the bottom of it the way you did. You kept referring to him as your "friend" which to me made me see him as just that. I applaud you. Thanks for sharing.
Can I just tell y'all...this was the best mystery/documentary on a missing person/identity theft/cold case that I may have ever seen! I felt the raw, real emotions of Dylan, the sister & mother. I was overcome with tears! But in the end, this wonderful human being brought closure, ANSWERS, & I believe some long-awaited HEALING to James Walton's family. I really wish I could do that for the rest of my life. It would feel amazing to give families of missing people the freedom that comes from KNOWING what happened! God bless everyone in this story🙏💙😢
The saddest thing about this whole situation is he probably thought he was doing everyone a favor or sparing them the embarrassment of criminal charges but a family that loves you as they so clearly loved James would've rather had him with them and dealt with it. People do crazy destructive things when they get in over their heads
Seems so heartbreaking that the family almost seemed forced to disconnect. In that this guy died all alone. Isn't it amazing how his friend found the real him.
Dylan is a true friend that everyone wishes for. He's incredible! He was so caring and understanding and he helped James family to reconnect and have closure. Proverbs 17:17 describes him so well, "A true friend shows love at all times And is a brother who is born for times of distress." We need more people like Dylan in the world ☺️
I am speechless. What an incredible story. Dylan, you are an amazing man. Twelve years you worked on this! The information you brought to the family is priceless. Heartbreaking story on so many levels. Dylan, I wish you the best. You deserve it for the person you are.
Now he can have a decent headstone on his grave and not be listed as a number. Bless your soul.... you provided answers for a family who was "forgotten"about. I believe if you didn't continue searching, they would still be in the dark. You've done an AMAZING good deed for this family❣🦉
This is one amazing documentary not only did Dylan get closer but so did James' mum and sister. I wish the all the best. We need more people in this world like Dylan.
This was very moving. My sister has been missing since 1993. I think of her out there somewhere with amnesia. She would have never left her children. Glad I got to see this and so glad James's family got to have closure.
I was broken hearted for Dylan... he had valor , didn't cry til the end when he had total confirmation of the hard fact.. I shed tears at a point before the end. cried for him.
He is a good man, I agree. I have to say though, why is it not okay in our society to cry? In all of the shows during interviews, when someone breaks down crying, they always apologize. Sometimes it's okay to cry!
He prepaid his own funeral because he knew there would be no family or close enough ffriends to do it after he died. As he knew he was living under a false identity and would never been found.
@@jhufelcarcellar463 It could have just been a freak coincidence. Implausible, but not impossible. However, seeing as he had a false identity, perhaps the stress of keeping everything under wraps for over a decade finally did him in. He started having issues with his health and felt like he needed to prepare for the worst. Who knows.
It isn't that unusual for people to get their affairs in order before they die. Depending on their age, they say goodbye in different ways. Giving more hugs, making a definitive point of saying how much they love you, a small child coloring "special" drawings, etc. They do on a subconscious level but they don't know consciously. And happens with people of all ages who are seemingly healthy. Only to have a sudden death like he did, or an accident. Not always. But, not unusual.
Dylan..... I’m not sure you’ll even see my comment, it’s been two yrs since the story aired , But if you do I would like to say your soul♥️ is deep, your thoughtfulness toward a missing friend, your curious sensitive nature speaks VOLUMES of you....♥️ I sat on the edge of my seat following you, whilst tears fell.... The Detective was huge in how he complimented his professional career. Soooo thorough !! Soooo kind & really cared about your plight. One last thought, although I have many, I was soooo touched by Mikes Sister, her genuine love for her brother was so apparent, and you Dylan, well you gave her closure in a very meaningful way.... She got to hold you.... as she would’ve held her brother, James, known to you as Mike... Not many in this world would go the extra miles you took ..... You are soooo special.... Truly your expressed through this a great commandment, “ Love others as you want to be love” In you Mike had this.., Blessings Dylan ~
"Your literally are the closest thing we have to him" 😥😥😥 its how I feel when I see my brothers best friend. Brings me to my knees everytime it's soul shattering to lose someone so close and especially out of those circumstances
My friends parents and especially mom feels that way about me. And I guess I them as well. I spent the first year after his death with them pretty much. Then I disappeared. It wasn’t good for them. They needed me to go do they could move on....
This was so compelling to watch. My god wow. I looked into this because of a comment on Barely Sociable's video about "The Book Tied To 75,000 Disappearances".
I would gather, people who go missing on purpose, aren't likely to be identified until their deaths, when it may be recognised they are living on false documents.
Ooohhhh man. The investigator totally blew it when he asked her if James WAS her brother, and she paused...then corrected him...."IS my brother". Before he told them he was dead. OOOPS!!
Jadiqua, I wouldn't test them, but if they did, you'd find out they were better friends than you thought. I do wonder if this "Mike" guy thought of Dylan this way, perhaps hoping he would contact his real family after he passed, as he didn't have the courage himself to do it. I actually doubt it, but it's possible.
Could be completely wrong, but I suspect maybe there was more than just friendship there. I just don't see a guy trying so hard to find out what happened to a friend who he only knew for less than 2 years unless they were closer than that. Especially considering how emotionally invested Dylan got, as though he was looking for a missing person more than just an identity. 12 years is a long time to search for someone you only knew for 2.
It warms my heart to see such a true friend even after death he felt compelled to solve the unknown about his known friendship! The to put yourself through so much extra grief to do it too!!!
So glad I stumbled across this… what a great feeling to be able to give the family some answers. I can’t imagine not knowing what happened to a loved one, and many don’t ever get answers. ❤️
Exactly what I just wrote...without DNA evidence from his Mom or Sister, no one knows. I would have liked them to do a forensics tests on the body, that no one ever identified.
Most likely because how could we ever know? I had a friend in high school - 18 years old - who told his mom he did not want an open casket when he died. No one could believe he said this - such a strange comment. He was dead a week later from a car accident that also took the lives of five other classmates. Can't be explained why he said this and then...gone.
Its crazy but some people just know. My godfather passedvfrom a freak fishing accident. A week or so before, he sat with my godmother having their usual morning coffee and went into detail about his funeral plans and how he wanted his possesions distributed amongst his kids. My godmother says she told him he was crazy and she didnt want to hear it. But in the end she is glad he made her listen to him. She was able to grant him his last wishes.
Dylan is a very kind, sensitive human being. Almost a rarity anymore. I do try to believe people are basically good, so it is a very interesting and heartwarming story. Thank you for posting.
I have been someone interested in True Crime since I was in 10th grade and on a family vacation (I’m 35 and from Philadelphia, PA, USA) and had checked out a library book about serial killers. Since then I’ve been hooked. With the coming of all things internet and especially TH-cam, my interest has never waned; in fact it’s gotten stronger. This documentary- is by far, the best narrated, the best produced, has the best “story” line, and has the best “characters” of any true crime documentary or series I have ever watched. It took you through every emotion any good true crime doc needs; I literally went from sitting on the edge of my seat, to my bottom jaw dropping open, to double tapping the left side of my screen over and over again bc it was just THAT good. The retired detective is your quintessential phlegmatic and ever composed private investigator. While Dylan brings the necessary emotion and warmth to the story that is shown often at exactly the right moments. During the tête-à-tête between Dylan and the investigator, Dylan expresses the difficulty he would have calling the presumed family of his deceased friend and former co-worker. Without so much as a blink or a head nod the detective comes right back with “call them”. Just perfect! Well done!
How sad. How beautiful. Really, there is nothing more precious than a true friend. Dylan, your perseverance brought closure to Mike/Jim's family. Living all those years under the strain of a false identity; I'm less than surprised at his having had a heart attack. Bless you, bless the Waltons. RIP Mike
Marybeth, ignore, ignore, ignore those type of people. Our own lives become much better when we stop paying attention to those who do not deserve it, lets just focuse on us being better people and on those who are doing the same.
Dylan is a very nice man. This brought tears to my eyes. What a lovely family Jim/Mike had as well. It's sad he didn't give them a chance to stand by him and his mistakes.
Yeah... Due his family was so good and decent he felt ashamed to look for a restitution... I've seen people who did long worst mistakes and family still hold them, support them... such a waste but I get Jim/Mike.
Mike must have been a really great friend to have someone spend so many years to find him. James' family must have been so grateful to finally know what happened.
He only had known Mike for 2 yrs and searched for the "unknown" for 12 yrs… and ultimately giving peace to a family, and finding closure for himself! ASTONISHING!!!!
jchristiancaldwell with blockage as severe as described, he 100% had symptoms and likely even “episodes.” He May have had a significant one recently, which prompted him to prearrange everything so his true identity would not be discovered. He doesn’t strike me as an unintelligent individual.
It's also strange to me that Dylan had to search for his plot for years. If James' body was found with the funeral home card and he pre-arranged his funeral, that means he did have a funeral, and since Dylan knew about James' death since soon after his body was discovered, wouldn't he be able to find out when/where the funeral was and attend? I've never heard of a secret funeral/secret burial before.
If I went missing like that, I'd probably do the same. He had no intention of his family finding out about what happened to him and at that time he had no new family of his own to make sure those arrangements would be made without authority involvement. If they did get involved, then they may have discovered his identity and informed his mother and sister. From what they said, I feel it's likely he did feel incredibly ashamed of himself and didn't want to burden them again, rather than do so out of spite. I reason this because there's no suggestion that he ever committed a crime after his disappearance and under his assumed name.
Geez that unexpectedly made me tear up. Dylan is such a sweet and pure soul and Jim's family seemed very lovely. I'm glad they all have closure, at the very least.
💜 Yes, God bless Dylan for helping search all those years for Mike/James family. I know that them having answers had to give them all closure. What a truly great friend in Dylan & James Mother & Sister were so grateful. I hope they can all find peace now 🙏💜
Such a lovely story. I'm laying here in tears, so it can't be all that lovely. Dylan is an amazing guy, with his tenderness to look for his friend Mike, that he had felt was unmistakably going to be a lifelong bond. Mike or Jim as it were, the soft-spoken man with the (chuckle) soft sense of humour became so mysterious to Dylan after his death. I thought Jim's mom and sister so deserved to hear Dylan's story. And in return Dylan wanted to piece together the story of Mike or Jim's life. The meeting of Jims mom and sister, Dylan and I must add the private investigator with whom this story would never have come to fruition was what made all the facts come together in such a human way. I so loved the way this documentary came to an end, with all of its parts. And I do appreciate stories that restore my strong faith that life in 2022 (when I watched this documentary) is actually so lovingly human after all.
12 years of searching and you gave his family closure. You are an awesome individual
Wow....
Agreed. My thoughts exactly
An awesome story of true friendship/brotherly love. Thanks for sharing it. God bless you.
My thought just kept revolving around the fact that had this man not cared so much about his friend the family would have NEVER known what happened to their son/brother!! And how many times does this happen and there is no resolution? So sad so incredibly sad. I still wonder did he go to the doctor and know he was about to have a heart attack? Why didnt he take care of the blockage? So many questions. . .
Assuming that he knew he had a heart condition.....His dad had died of a massive heart attack, so he might have thought that it was inevitable that he would die the same way.
"James was your brother?"
"Is my brother, yes."
My heart sank.
I know! OOPSIE
My heart breaks!
What a sharp woman she is. The mothers yearning to know “right now” (the urgency in her voice and in her answers about her health, and being alone) were equally as heartbreaking to me. She wasn’t about to let them off the phone without hearing what they knew about her son. So terribly sad. Tho, it sounded like his mother had possibly come to terms a long time before (she said “its been a long time”).
What a crazy, sad, senseless story. I’ll bet that was the shock of their lives to find out that he’d disappeared intentionally (I’m sure they’d pondered foul play), and had been living under an assumed identity (that’s just unheard of, and especially for such a petty crime! It isn’t like he murdered someone in cold blood and was looking at a life or death sentence!).
What a great guy Dylan is too. I have to wonder if he felt a different sense of loss once he finally had the answers he’d sought for so long? James’ story has to have been such a big part of Dylan’s life for it to have come to such an abrupt and final ending (I mean he knew the “final” ending, Mike/James’ death, but the hours.. years.. he spent on this for it just to be over).. with some, but not all, of his questions answered. And so senseless! My God! 😫
Seems like such a sad, and empty ending. Excellent documentary tho. I could’ve watched twice as long at least, and still have questions I wish he’d answered, but maybe will never be answered (like the connection to the name he assumed, like his prearranging his own funeral at such a young age, etc.).
I hope not. I hope everyone involved has the answers THEY wanted and needed, and that the answers Dylan gifted to them (out of the kindness of his heart) finally brings them peace of mind and not more questioning or feelings of regret or sadness. (I’m not sure how I’d feel were this my own brother or son, so I question how they might feel.)
yup...
She knew at that moment but I believe they've expected to hear that for a long time. Such a sad but satisfying story.
Haven’t watched something this good and engaging and honest on TH-cam in a long time.
Missle Toe You do realize that this is scripted. The story may be true but the video is scripted.
@@MzSuzy2698 How exactly does that fact make the story any less honest? I mean...really?
Suzanne Bodette have you heard what a documentary is?
Me either!
I agree!
I work as a professional researcher and started my writing career doing true crime. You did an fantastic job running down "Mike's" real identity. It's such a shame that he chose such an elaborate charade to become "Mike". So sad to wonder how often he must have thought of his sister and mother and other family members he had to abandon so suddenly and know he could never see him again. You solved a mystery, and brought relief and closure to those lovely people. You persevered and you solved an elaborate mystery. Your comment about not really knowing who your friends are was poignant and thought-provoking. You did him a great honor and you brought him home. In the end, it didn't matter whose name he would sign, you WERE small town Ontario kids, but more importantly, you WERE a true friend.
Awesome investigation & indeed a true friend I!
I myself come from criminalist studies background. Criminology College University of New Haven.
Astonishing results of a difficult missing persons case.💓
A beautiful story; Dylan's tenacity in getting the truth and the great detective's managing a very tricky situation really was just heartening
Dylan is the type of homie one can wish to have at least once in a life time . He didn't judge, he just helped.
He did judge in the beginning. He was angry, and had every right to be. He felt betrayed, lied to and conned. However, if he didn't judge to begin with, what motivation would inspire a person to press on for twelve years. Curiosity alone, isn't a fuel or engine for such determination. Nothing is wrong with judging, but what we do with, and how we use it in the end.
Wolfgang Kulik pumpkins, did you watch this? They did hangout outside of work. What's up with the email address? Desperate?
Wolfgang Kulik OCD my assterisk. He's a good person who's concerned about "Mike" and wants to get to the truth. It doesn't matter if they were friends, acquaintances, or strangers. And what's with giving your email address away? YOU are crazy in my book, Amadeus!
Tracey Hunter what is a homie?
Homie.
noun · informal
an acquaintance from one's town or neighbourhood, or a member of one's peer group or gang.
Why is nobody taking about him saying hello on the phone and waving with his hand at the same time. This is the most adorable gesture I have seen in a long time... ♥️
Yes I thought so too. Very sweet guy x
it was pretty cute, yes///
Dorky
Yup never done it however I find it adorable that you find it adorable lol
I didn't notice. I do it myself every time I am on the phone, so I probably didn't find it unusual enough to take notice of. 😆
Dylan, the security guard at the cemetery, and the private investigator... all of them, A class people. Amazing personalities...
The school librarian too.
That's the attitude and personality of Canadians..
“God bless you!”
Canada.... if it wasnt so cold I'd of moved there long ago
openview ???
The investigator Dave is such a huge professional. The way he handled the call with James' mum was outstanding and really thoughtful. How he didn't want her to be alone when he broke the news. I think that's awesome. You can tell how he spoke with her that he had a ton of experience talking to family members like this.
Totally agree handled it brilliantly
I thought he could have done it even better. But it was ok. May be he could have used some intro, like "i am afraid the news isnt very good" something like that.
Well Dylan,
You are one heck of a friend.
I only wish I had someone like you in my life.
Maybe I did and didn’t know it.
Or still do but haven't realised it yet..
Gerard Martin
Same
You can be that someone in another person's life.
@@smittysmeee i like that reply. People who think like you make the world a better place. I hope you're doing good.
Oh, man. That last line hit me.
It's refreshing to see a documentary of this nature that is poignant, where the people are all good and decent. Even the missing man who committed crimes was a sympathetic figure who might have steered himself right over time. It must have meant so much to him to have a friend from back home. I admire the detective's empathy and skill in his handling of the phone calls and meeting.
There's a part of me who can't get over how selfish it is to take off and leave your family in turmoil forever like that though, seems more damaging than the financial crimes.
Sarah L Sarah L That’s the bit that still bothers me as well. I couldn’t imagine doing that to my family, regardless of what I did. They seemed like a really close and loving family too, making it all the more painful. I can’t imagine what his family has gone through all of these years, and will continue to go through the rest of their lives. It’s a heartbreaking situation all around. “Mike” didn’t seem like a particularly bad guy, and I don’t necessarily think he’s a horrible person, but I still don’t agree at all with what he did to everyone who cared about him, including Dylan. “Mike”/John seemed like a very lost individual who felt in over his head, but that doesn’t excuse his actions. You have to wonder what his side of the story was, and what his own reasonings were for going missing and leaving his entire life behind, including his loved ones. I also wonder if he ever planned to reach out to his family again at some point in the future. It’s so sad that his family never got that chance. My heart hurts for them and for Dylan. They all lost someone they loved and cared deeply about, and they all had to face the shock of all the lies coming to the surface, with all of the questions they will never know the answer to. God bless them!
Sometimes a person might do this to keep trouble away from the door of those they love. There are atill some odd questions unanswered about this case, but I think mainly the people involved were good people even Mike himself, he had certainly gor himself to a place where he was leading a quiet industrious life. Maybe he thought he couldn't land his mistakes on his family.
Retired Detective is total class.
Missing 22 years.
Dead for 12.
Powerful closure.
luvsilly60 yeah that phone call!!!!
Mesmerizing!!!!😊👍
Detectives probably dont get a lot of closure in these type of cases. This must of been extraordinary for all involved.
Watched this a couple of times and still it gets to me. Dylan is the sort of friend everyone needs. And Jim/Mike seemed to be someone who made such an impression on a friend, that the friend did so much to find the truth. Amazing story. Thank you.
Dylan didn't know this guy that long, but he got super emotionally connected to him.
Very touching story Dylan is the sort if friend i would like to have
Agreed 100%
Dylan's face when the investigator calls the family shows so much. He has a pure heart.
Or a absolute phyco
And Dylan's face could be used for the white balance ;)
Yeah when he says WAS your brother 🙄😠
@@ricoluciano527 pp
I love your music :)
Literally breath taking. That man has a heart of pure gold. My faith in humanity is briefly restored
@Iansain the great can you please take your negativity elsewhere? thanks.
@@dapje2002ok now break all that down to me like im 5 years old lmao
Iansain the great they were friends. I’d do the same. Nice outlook on life, buddy.
@@saffron-scotchuniversalone2042 lol, right. Smh.
"literally" ?
As a mother, it would be very comforting & mean everything to know he had a friend like this.
Violet I felt the same while watching. They obviously had a deep friendship - that would’ve brought me comfort , that he wasn’t alone.
Indeed. There's many of us that don't, though. Me included. I just have A feeling that no one I know would do this kind of thing if any foul play ever happened to me.
because of him they know what happened to him
tall32guy it’s never too late to surround yourself with different people or one good person. It’s easy today to feel like we are a bit on our own isolated island & sometimes it’s true. Sometimes it is situational & I do hope that is the case for you.
Strange Boy - You can assume as you wish. That being said, one doesn’t have to make assumptions to know you are a garbage human being.
It's been a couple years since I've watched this but it was recommended again and it's still as moving as ever. Thanks to all the Dylans out there for being Dylans.
👍
Agree!
Totally agree. What an amazing friend!
I have a few friends that would do that. I would hope I would be that kind of friend.
Same, just rewatched and still just as moved. ❤️✨
This guy is possibly the most likeable guy I have ever seen.
Holy_Hand_Grenade-of-Antioch A very kind soul indeed. ❤️
Too likeable to be true
Truly
@@adelaidemcmillan3176 my thoughts as well
Im in love with Dylan.... He is the absolute Definition of Integrity. Outstanding Man. I totally tip My hat from Nola... New Orleans that is💞💞💞💞🤞
I have a brother that went missing and this story is almost exactly like what we're are going thru. I hope my brother meets someone like Dylan that can give us answers in the future.
I pray that you find your brother. I cannot imagine how heartbreaking it must be.
Thank you guys for the kind words.
May God help you find your brother...🙏
You can be your brother's "Dylan" right now. There are tons of people online who would be willing to help you. I hope you find the answers you seek. ❤
Hey Johnny, make sure you FOIA the files and see what the police actually know so far.
The detective is so professional. It’s different because he was missing for so long. What a guy, incredible. If it wasn’t for Dylan they never would have known
Imagine if he had managed to get abroad! And did he ever know his father died of a heart attack, and then to die of one himself and to pay for the funeral a week before..... Still some odd unanswered questions!
@@lozzylols that’s true they said something about he was paying for his funeral a week before he passed away in his apartment? He was either diagnosed buy some physician that he had a fully clogged artery and he wasn’t about to go under surgery to get it fixed or he was clairvoyant. I’m kidding but I’m not. This was a very interesting and good story it kept me glued to the screen. I feel bad for his mom and his sister.
@@Gardenroses12 they were pretty matter of fact on the phone while Dylan was so emotional
This made me cry. Dylan is absolutely a incredible person. Im lost for words. The loyalty and dedication to his friend is above and beyond... ♥️
Without Dylan, his family would never have known what happened to Jim. Just incredible odds - the Police got Dylan's number because he was a reference for Mike/Jim to get a passport - without that connection, Dylan would never have known Mike/Jim had died, or learned that he was living under an assumed identity. Then Dylan had the tenacity to keep on and on, searching, tracking every lead he had, until he found Mike's true identity. The odds against the Police finding Dylan's number, the odds against him dying so young that his death led to Dylan discovering his friend had given him a false name - and the massive odds against Dylan being the type of person to keep on looking for Mike/Jim's true identity - are just enormous. Although it's ultimately a tragic ending for the family, at least they know. They also know that he had a good job, he was living a reasonably happy life and he had friends around him, and one especially good and true friend in his life, and after his death - Dylan.
What an amazing documentary and moving story. It appears James knew he was sick, but probably didn't seek medical attention for fear of being discovered? No telling. Kudos to Dylan who never forgot his friend and the former detective who assisted him. Condolences to the family. What a sad ending.
ibuprofenPill There was closure for his mother and sister.
@SiViX Yeah but sorting out your funeral at 33 though.
Considering he died the exact same way as his father, if he knew about his father's death then it is possible he would already have the suspicion that he will one day share the same fate
This has to be
one of the greatest
documentaries I've ever seen.
100% thanks for your humanity,
and hope you write a book
or something
about all this someday.
When Dylan was shaking after he found out Mike's missing person data, my heart was beating so hard I felt like I was in the journey too. 😭 What a wonderful documentary! Dylan is truly one of a kind, Mike is lucky to have him as friend. The ending is very touching.
Great story . Police should work so hard
@@asullivan2098 Many do and just stop.
shame that the guy just turned out to be a small caliber crook and that was the entire reason for the mystery
Bry Halla again another person....thank you for putting "spoiler alert" at the beginning of your comment...awesome to read when I started the documentary and already knew how it would end
@@amyc9155 maybe u shouldn't scroll straight to the comments if ur that worried about it
This was beautiful, the family was so grateful for Dylan coming forward and trying to search for those answers. Dylan is so damn pure... I hope that he and the family kept in touch after.
I like that word ",,pure" for Dylan. He's definitely an amazing person
Once-in-a-lifetime you may find a pure friend like Dylan, but not always once-in-a-lifetime as Friendship is so hard to find. 🙏💓
This story is unbelievable. Dylan, you’re a special person with a big heart.
❤
and good looking too
Strange Boy Possibly, but that’s not really our business though. Xoxo
Dylan has the kindest eyes! This was amazing!
👀
Sometimes being rich doesn't always mean money. Sometimes it means having a friend like Dylan.
Thank you for your humanity and for sharing Dylan. Special.
I will take love and friends over money any day. It's rarer
He was in love with Mike. People, it is so obvious... :D
that gave me chills
The best things on life aren’t things :)
I watch A LOT of docs on YT. This one is, by far, the most emotional, meaningful, and rewarding. Thank you.
same
May we all aspire to be a friend like him and lucky enough to have one in our lives.
Amen to that!
Give Dylan his own series helping others find loved ones. He's very captivating.
None ya businezz don't lie, it's just the beard.
I would watch a series by him
A great idea!
None ya businezz: Really I never noticied LOL (so obvious).
@@micklemons8885 The beard IS pretty epic.
Wowww to my surprise, I was not expecting to see this type of documentary on TH-cam. It was refreshing to see such a caring and loving friend, Dylan, to endlessly research his deceased friend/co-worker and finally give Mike/Jim's family closure. The world needs more Dylans like him! Cheers to you, Dylan ✌🏼💚
We should all be so lucky to have a friend like Dylan.
This is one of the most emotional documentaries I have ever listened to or watched. I'm giving credit to the persistence of this guy that Never Let It Go regardless all those years of obstacles and setbacks. I want to send my sympathy to the mother and the daughter for accepting this news with Grace. I hope that we have closure with this information and move on with their lives.
Do not see _Dear Zachary_ ... It will mess you up.
Sekou Mike Sanoe watch Dear Zachary
What a thoroughly decent man Dylan is.
Lisa Wrigley wat a super guy a real true Friend god bless him and all his family
Dylan is the type of friend one can wish to have at least once in a life time . He didn't judge, he just helped.
+Sonia Lobel ya.... you said that... verbatim haha
Yep. Handsome, too.
@Sonia L How many times are you gonna reply that to comments? We get it, bish
Dylan should become a PI, he did most of the work.
magency17 that’s right. David is now working for Dylan. 😊
He's too nice to be a PI
I can't imagine going through something like this. But I once had a friend--my very best, closest friend--who, it turned out, had been embezzling and forging checks, etc. He was arrested and convicted. It taught me that no matter how close you think you are to someone, you ONLY know what they want you to know.
Dylan I truly admire your loyalty to your friend''s memory. Your courage to meet with his family leaves me breathless and I recognize how important your friendship was with Mike. Your a very kind and caring person Dylan. And I cry with you and hope that you have found peace & tranquility. Thank you for sharing.
Man, Dylan needs to write a book, he would make such a compelling author, he has had such a way with words
Jessica Walling I agree this would make a great book.
Well He is kinda.. He is a film maker himself...
Violet... well naturally he has a way with words when making a documentary for himself!
The respect that Security Guard had was beautiful.
I agree, it touched me too.
The guy who was helping the filmmaker? I agree. I love how he spoke to the mother over the phone when they first called her and how he asked her specific questions in a specific manner concerning her well-being so that she wouldn't be overcome by the news. I thought it was very considerate. :)
Cleo Alviro - lol "security guard" ! ! That was a PRIVATE DETECTIVE ,there really is a huge difference between the two.This guy was a former police officer before opening his own ageny.He obviously had contacts and knew his stuff !Bet he ain't cheap lol.
@@lizhall4473 Cleo is talking about the Security Guard near the beginning of the film from about 1:50, only too happy to clear any misunderstanding Liz :o)
regards,
Paz.
@@SuperChoronzon Thanks Paz, I think I got a little confused 😕 between the two guys! Judging by the comments it seems I'm not the only one!!
Love and light to you x
Absolutely phenomenal documentary. Dylan - I hope that you have found peace. Your filmmaking skills are amazing and the emotion portrayed by colour-grading etc was not lost on the audience. Well done 👏🏻
That phonecall was really sad... I think the sister knew what was what the second the PI said "was your brother", and she corrected him.... Dylan is a legend tho. We would all be so lucky to have a true mate like him.
That is called a real, true friend to Michael!! Looked and searched for Michael's real identity tooks a lot of time and effort!! So emotional!! I'm in teary tears.
I know Teresita! I wish i meet a friend like that! My life-long best friend stabbed me in the back horribly, so i lost my trust in friendship, but this proved to me they exist! TRUE FRIENDS ARE REAL! Love that guy.... best wishes to u Tere..
Å
Daniela García
My best friend did exactly the same Daniela.
Dillon was a true friend.
Not many like him. Very emotional ending.
Take care of yourself. ❤
teresita callard
Me too dear.❤
thats what most friends, so called bff's are doing, stabbing you in the back, mostly when u expect it the least....sad but true wy more often than not (happened also a few times in my life). And yes, what would I give for such a loyal friend like Dylan....
Dylan you are an angel. I think you've found your place under the sun. Plus your eyes are just as beautiful as your soul.
I’m so glad the family and Dillon found closure. Very professionally filmed and put together. Should win a short film award 🥇
This one of the best Documentaries I've ever watched!! This is a true friend. Amazing documentary.
Dylan is the human equivalent of a golden retriever
Linnéa n Yes he’s a good and carrying friend but he didn’t do his job as a journalist in the way he hid the info at the end that he tried to find out about in the beginning. Then when he has that info/ability to get it he doesn’t disclose it to us as well as doesn’t give and final conclusion on the mysterious aspect of the death. Makes me made and leaves me on a cliff hanger. Which sucks. I know he hate not knowing but now he left us all in that same place.
Not really. Golden retrievers are one of the dumbest breeds 🥱
Linnéa n is it good?
Nothing better than the loyalty and love of a golden retriever.
I HATE THESE COMMENTS
All the graves without tombstones, it's a sad reality. There's no reason for them to be so expensive.
No we all end going to dust. It should not be a year's salary to be buried
It's an old saying... "Life is expensive, Death is cheap"...
@@jhonfamo8412 The funeral business is a complete racket, we know that--but I can't imagine not being able to afford even a modest headstone. They're not that expensive.
@@richardernsberger5692 well start imagining. Loads of folks can not afford a "financed" plot, which is usually the real cost, and a head stone? Brother ,we the soon to be dead, do not need dirt or postion anyway. Memories is the best we can do. Hopefully through some universal influence on the living. Peace to u
When I die just throw me in the trash
Dylan is the epitome of a true friend. He treasured the relationship with Michael by wanting to know him more even after his passing. Very seldom does one meet a person with high regard and values on friendship.
Both of them were destined to cross paths, be friends for a specific purpose.
Dylan unable to accept Michael's passing from a heart failure led him to know his real identity. The information he learned uncovered why James became Michael. This also put an end to the 12 years of agony by James family. Putting to rest the doubts from their minds.
Whether its faith, destiny or something else, I so thank you so much Dylan for doing what you did. Just seeing James mother and sister sigh of relief; is like giving them back an important part of themselves.
@joe today
So well said, I agree with you wholeheartedly 🙏🏽🕊💜
It's been 22 years since he disappeared in 1992 until 2014 when this was filmed.
Perhaps he’s a hero,but just from the start of the film I got a different feel about the guy. He was lied to by a good friend,and it pissed him off that his whole time spent with Mike was a ruse. Nobody likes to be tricked,and he couldn’t handle the stories. He believed Mike and lived in a fantasy world for all he knew,perhaps it was to save his own sanity about reality that started this journey. He did this for him out of selfish reasons,and it had to do with being tricked. He was gonna figure out whether you knew it or not. Hero? Maybe. Friend? Possibly. Pissed? Definitely. Don’t think he did this out the goodness of his heart. He did this for his own need to know who tricked him into believing an illusion so well planned that it messed with his head. It is interesting and very strange story so far,I’ll let you know if I feel different,but for now this was Dylan needing to know he wasn’t insane. Have a good day and peace ✌️
Why must we "know" how U feel about it? I don't care what u think of him.I suppose that is why the majority doesn't care either.
Dylan turned white as a ghost during that phone call to the family; I've never seen someone do that so hard in real life. I just wanted to give him a hug. Annnnd I'm crying.
jessyg17 use your tears for lube
If anyone ever has a friend like Dylan, hold on to that friend, cause they don't come like he does. It is very rare. Wonderful documentary
his friend looked like such genuine and sweet person, his eyes were so pure ;_; you are a good person, thanks for helping his family!
From the curiosity of what happened to your friend, to solving who he was, and giving his family and yourself closure. Great job!
Thank you for sharing this story. I can only think there are millions of stories like this that will never be told.
This was an awesome documentary. Very moving. The world needs more people like Dylan. What a smart, committed, respectful guy.
I got chills at the end when the sentence about the DNA confirmation faded in. When there is a will, there is a way. People are incredible.
Such a beautiful, touching story...he’ll never know how lucky he was to have a friend like you..
Or maybe he does.
What a great friend. Not many people would've done so much to get to the bottom of it the way you did. You kept referring to him as your "friend" which to me made me see him as just that. I applaud you. Thanks for sharing.
Can I just tell y'all...this was the best mystery/documentary on a missing person/identity theft/cold case that I may have ever seen! I felt the raw, real emotions of Dylan, the sister & mother. I was overcome with tears! But in the end, this wonderful human being brought closure, ANSWERS, & I believe some long-awaited HEALING to James Walton's family. I really wish I could do that for the rest of my life. It would feel amazing to give families of missing people the freedom that comes from KNOWING what happened! God bless everyone in this story🙏💙😢
I have tears in my eyes too, it’s such a sad story but what a good friend Dylan was.
Very emotional story. Only takes one person to care. A bittersweet event.
The saddest thing about this whole situation is he probably thought he was doing everyone a favor or sparing them the embarrassment of criminal charges but a family that loves you as they so clearly loved James would've rather had him with them and dealt with it. People do crazy destructive things when they get in over their heads
Mike probably thought that he didn't want to spend several years in prison getting raped and beaten up by blue collar criminals
No just embarrassment, he was worried about the stigma.
So true!
Seems so heartbreaking that the family almost seemed forced to disconnect. In that this guy died all alone. Isn't it amazing how his friend found the real him.
Dylan is a true friend that everyone wishes for. He's incredible! He was so caring and understanding and he helped James family to reconnect and have closure. Proverbs 17:17 describes him so well, "A true friend shows love at all times And is a brother who is born for times of distress." We need more people like Dylan in the world ☺️
I was thinking the same thing. Good comment.
True
relax like proverbs thats a chapter with mostly poetry style verses YOU HARLOTE
I am speechless. What an incredible story. Dylan, you are an amazing man. Twelve years you worked on this! The information you brought to the family is priceless. Heartbreaking story on so many levels. Dylan, I wish you the best. You deserve it for the person you are.
Now he can have a decent headstone on his grave and not be listed as a number. Bless your soul.... you provided answers for a family who was "forgotten"about. I believe if you didn't continue searching, they would still be in the dark. You've done an AMAZING good deed for this family❣🦉
This is the kind of guy you want to be bestfriends with. May there be many more like him.
This is one amazing documentary not only did Dylan get closer but so did James' mum and sister. I wish the all the best. We need more people in this world like Dylan.
Simply incredible Dylan. I wish I had a friend like you!
Dylan, a decent man.
Just goes to show how much goodness and niceness are worth. A very impressive tec and family too. Very moving film.
Aa
@@adamsmith321 "No 'Oooh in surprise and alarm!'"
'Life of Brian.'
This was very moving. My sister has been missing since 1993. I think of her out there somewhere with amnesia. She would have never left her children. Glad I got to see this and so glad James's family got to have closure.
I’m so sorry that you’re dealing with this. It can’t be easy at all.
I was broken hearted for Dylan... he had valor , didn't cry til the end when he had total confirmation of the hard fact.. I shed tears at a point before the end. cried for him.
He is a good man, I agree. I have to say though, why is it not okay in our society to cry? In all of the shows during interviews, when someone breaks down crying, they always apologize. Sometimes it's okay to cry!
He prepaid his own funeral because he knew there would be no family or close enough ffriends to do it after he died. As he knew he was living under a false identity and would never been found.
Jasmine liketheflower Plausible.
Prepaid if a week or two before he died ..hmmmm??
@@jhufelcarcellar463 It could have just been a freak coincidence. Implausible, but not impossible. However, seeing as he had a false identity, perhaps the stress of keeping everything under wraps for over a decade finally did him in. He started having issues with his health and felt like he needed to prepare for the worst. Who knows.
It isn't that unusual for people to get their affairs in order before they die. Depending on their age, they say goodbye in different ways. Giving more hugs, making a definitive point of saying how much they love you, a small child coloring "special" drawings, etc. They do on a subconscious level but they don't know consciously. And happens with people of all ages who are seemingly healthy. Only to have a sudden death like he did, or an accident.
Not always. But, not unusual.
Jasmine liketheflo
I'm straight, but I'm in love with this man! Oh to have this kind of a friend? You, Dylan, are a rare individual!
you aren't straight mr.
You wanting to eat Dylan's meat right?
This is better than all the true crimes podcasts you can watch on TH-cam.
Dylan..... I’m not sure you’ll even see my comment, it’s been two yrs since the story aired , But if you do I would like to say your soul♥️ is deep, your thoughtfulness toward a missing friend, your curious sensitive nature speaks VOLUMES of you....♥️
I sat on the edge of my seat following you, whilst tears fell....
The Detective was huge in how he complimented his professional career.
Soooo thorough !! Soooo kind & really cared about your plight.
One last thought, although I have many, I was soooo touched by Mikes Sister, her genuine love for her brother was so apparent, and you Dylan, well you gave her closure in a very meaningful way....
She got to hold you.... as she would’ve held her brother, James, known to you as Mike...
Not many in this world would go the extra miles you took .....
You are soooo special....
Truly your expressed through this a great commandment, “ Love others as you want to be love”
In you Mike had this..,
Blessings Dylan ~
Man, whoever is lucky enough to have Dylan in their lives... My heart aches. What a wonderful man.
"Your literally are the closest thing we have to him" 😥😥😥 its how I feel when I see my brothers best friend. Brings me to my knees everytime it's soul shattering to lose someone so close and especially out of those circumstances
I know this exact thing happened to my brother over a year ago.
god damn girl, learn basic English
@@JimA-pp2nu if a few typos bother you that much you have bigger issues to figure out.
87877
My friends parents and especially mom feels that way about me. And I guess I them as well. I spent the first year after his death with them pretty much. Then I disappeared. It wasn’t good for them. They needed me to go do they could move on....
This was so compelling to watch. My god wow. I looked into this because of a comment on Barely Sociable's video about "The Book Tied To 75,000 Disappearances".
Me too...glad I watched this.
@@Ms_MalRkey lucky us 😀
@@TRFAD
Ngl I would like to read this book lol
This makes me wonder how many other people have gone “missing” but on purpose and they just haven’t been recognized yet.
It's not as uncommon as you might think.
I would gather, people who go missing on purpose, aren't likely to be identified until their deaths, when it may be recognised they are living on false documents.
Me. Noone will know who i was when i die.
@@lozzylols the trick is getting valid documents with a new identity.
Ooohhhh man. The investigator totally blew it when he asked her if James WAS her brother, and she paused...then corrected him...."IS my brother". Before he told them he was dead. OOOPS!!
Dylan is like the perfect friend none of my friends would search that much for me lol .
Jadiqua, I wouldn't test them, but if they did, you'd find out they were better friends than you thought. I do wonder if this "Mike" guy thought of Dylan this way, perhaps hoping he would contact his real family after he passed, as he didn't have the courage himself to do it. I actually doubt it, but it's possible.
Could be completely wrong, but I suspect maybe there was more than just friendship there. I just don't see a guy trying so hard to find out what happened to a friend who he only knew for less than 2 years unless they were closer than that. Especially considering how emotionally invested Dylan got, as though he was looking for a missing person more than just an identity. 12 years is a long time to search for someone you only knew for 2.
AmbientShade Hmm. Are you saying they were in a relationship?
AmbientShade i kinda agree with you. There seems to be more at least on Dylan’s part
It warms my heart to see such a true friend even after death he felt compelled to solve the unknown about his known friendship!
The to put yourself through so much extra grief to do it too!!!
I want this man as a friend, honest, good hearted, loyal just a wonderful man and friend.
So glad I stumbled across this… what a great feeling to be able to give the family some answers. I can’t imagine not knowing what happened to a loved one, and many don’t ever get answers. ❤️
Why isn't anybody discussing how he pre arranged for his funeral!!!!!
Exactly what I just wrote...without DNA evidence from his Mom or Sister, no one knows. I would have liked them to do a forensics tests on the body, that no one ever identified.
@@moirajilani1 43:00
Most likely because how could we ever know? I had a friend in high school - 18 years old - who told his mom he did not want an open casket when he died. No one could believe he said this - such a strange comment. He was dead a week later from a car accident that also took the lives of five other classmates. Can't be explained why he said this and then...gone.
Its crazy but some people just know. My godfather passedvfrom a freak fishing accident. A week or so before, he sat with my godmother having their usual morning coffee and went into detail about his funeral plans and how he wanted his possesions distributed amongst his kids. My godmother says she told him he was crazy and she didnt want to hear it. But in the end she is glad he made her listen to him. She was able to grant him his last wishes.
Nancy Pineda...I believe it. Can't explain it but I know it happens.
Dylan is a very kind, sensitive human being. Almost a rarity anymore. I do try to believe people are basically good, so it is a very interesting and heartwarming story. Thank you for posting.
Wish that everybody can have one Dylan in our lives....what a FRIEND
I have been someone interested in True Crime since I was in 10th grade and on a family vacation (I’m 35 and from Philadelphia, PA, USA) and had checked out a library book about serial killers. Since then I’ve been hooked. With the coming of all things internet and especially TH-cam, my interest has never waned; in fact it’s gotten stronger. This documentary- is by far, the best narrated, the best produced, has the best “story” line, and has the best “characters” of any true crime documentary or series I have ever watched. It took you through every emotion any good true crime doc needs; I literally went from sitting on the edge of my seat, to my bottom jaw dropping open, to double tapping the left side of my screen over and over again bc it was just THAT good. The retired detective is your quintessential phlegmatic and ever composed private investigator. While Dylan brings the necessary emotion and warmth to the story that is shown often at exactly the right moments. During the tête-à-tête between Dylan and the investigator, Dylan expresses the difficulty he would have calling the presumed family of his deceased friend and former co-worker. Without so much as a blink or a head nod the detective comes right back with “call them”. Just perfect! Well done!
When Dylan hugged his sister and they both cried, I lost it.
Dav serban she lost it
You could feel it through the screen that they wanted to hug before they did or I could at least.
Me too.
How sad. How beautiful. Really, there is nothing more precious than a true friend. Dylan, your perseverance brought closure to Mike/Jim's family. Living all those years under the strain of a false identity; I'm less than surprised at his having had a heart attack. Bless you, bless the Waltons. RIP Mike
Dylan, what a fine man you are, anyone would be honored and so lucky to have a friend like you.
Alejandro G was thinking the Same Thing...not many people like Dylan, sad to say.
Marybeth, ignore, ignore, ignore those type of people. Our own lives become much better when we stop paying attention to those who do not deserve it, lets just focuse on us being better people and on those who are doing the same.
I couldn’t tear myself away from beginning to end. This was so incredibly well and thoughtfully put together. Amazing job.
Dylan is a very nice man. This brought tears to my eyes. What a lovely family Jim/Mike had as well. It's sad he didn't give them a chance to stand by him and his mistakes.
Yeah... Due his family was so good and decent he felt ashamed to look for a restitution... I've seen people who did long worst mistakes and family still hold them, support them... such a waste but I get Jim/Mike.
I have a feeling he felt he had no other option. Maybe his mother was not one he could approach admitting what he was involved with.
The world needs more Dylans. Dylan is an amazing friend..even though the ending was sad..he gave James family closure.
I love how he refuses to him as "My Friend." What refreshing reminder of how caring people can be.
Mike must have been a really great friend to have someone spend so many years to find him. James' family must have been so grateful to finally know what happened.
Everybody should have a friend like Dylan.
Let's face it it had less to do with him being a friend then the fact that there was too much mystery for anyone to just ignore
Dylan should have a friend like Dylan.
One of the best docs I've seen. Came back just to thumbs up and comment
"was your brother , yes?""uh, IS my brother".....OUCH
Vic yah. I noticed that too and I was like 😪
Yikes....I noticed that, too.
The Mom and Sister had no idea he was dead, just missing is all.
@Vic, yeah that was kind of heart-wrenching. Nice way to inform her!
He only had known Mike for 2 yrs and searched for the "unknown" for 12 yrs… and ultimately giving peace to a family, and finding closure for himself!
ASTONISHING!!!!
All this seems case closed but the fact that he prearranged the funeral is strange
jchristiancaldwell with blockage as severe as described, he 100% had symptoms and likely even “episodes.” He May have had a significant one recently, which prompted him to prearrange everything so his true identity would not be discovered. He doesn’t strike me as an unintelligent individual.
@6laderunner or he was threatened by the mafia
It's also strange to me that Dylan had to search for his plot for years. If James' body was found with the funeral home card and he pre-arranged his funeral, that means he did have a funeral, and since Dylan knew about James' death since soon after his body was discovered, wouldn't he be able to find out when/where the funeral was and attend? I've never heard of a secret funeral/secret burial before.
What does the funeral have to say about all this?
If I went missing like that, I'd probably do the same. He had no intention of his family finding out about what happened to him and at that time he had no new family of his own to make sure those arrangements would be made without authority involvement. If they did get involved, then they may have discovered his identity and informed his mother and sister. From what they said, I feel it's likely he did feel incredibly ashamed of himself and didn't want to burden them again, rather than do so out of spite. I reason this because there's no suggestion that he ever committed a crime after his disappearance and under his assumed name.
Geez that unexpectedly made me tear up. Dylan is such a sweet and pure soul and Jim's family seemed very lovely. I'm glad they all have closure, at the very least.
💜 Yes, God bless Dylan for helping search all those years for Mike/James family. I know
that them having answers had to give them all closure. What a truly great friend in Dylan & James Mother & Sister were so grateful. I hope they can all find peace now 🙏💜
Amazing!! Dylan sounds like such a solid guy. So beyond beautiful to give the family some peace and closure. Well done.
Such a lovely story. I'm laying here in tears, so it can't be all that lovely. Dylan is an amazing guy, with his tenderness to look for his friend Mike, that he had felt was unmistakably going to be a lifelong bond. Mike or Jim as it were, the soft-spoken man with the (chuckle) soft sense of humour became so mysterious to Dylan after his death. I thought Jim's mom and sister so deserved to hear Dylan's story. And in return Dylan wanted to piece together the story of Mike or Jim's life. The meeting of Jims mom and sister, Dylan and I must add the private investigator with whom this story would never have come to fruition was what made all the facts come together in such a human way. I so loved the way this documentary came to an end, with all of its parts. And I do appreciate stories that restore my strong faith that life in 2022 (when I watched this documentary) is actually so lovingly human after all.