Tracy Sue Zandstra

Zandstra, circa 1991; Richard Pyle

  • Missing Since 11/16/1991
  • Missing From Stirling City, California
  • Classification Endangered Missing
  • Sex Female
  • Race White
  • Date of Birth 03/17/1962 (62)
  • Age 29 years old
  • Height and Weight 5'7, 112 pounds
  • Distinguishing Characteristics Caucasian female. Blonde hair, green eyes. Zandstra has a tattoo of a butterfly on her right breast. She had a broken right finger at the time of her disappearance. She may use the last name McAfee.

Details of Disappearance

Zandstra was last seen at her residence in the 17100 block of Pine Street in Stirling City, California on November 16, 1991. She lived with her boyfriend, Richard Pyle, and her two young children. She left her home at 2:00 a.m. and has never been heard from again. She left behind her purse and all her clothes, as well as her children.

In August 2019, Pyle was arrested on suspicion of Zandstra's murder. A photo of him is posted with this case summary.

At his trial in 2022, prior testimony was heard from Zandstra’s son, who said he was twelve years old when Pyle forced him to help dismember Zandstra’s body and put the pieces in a bag for burial. Zandstra’s son died two weeks before the trial began, however, so he could not testify in front of the jury. Pyle was acquitted of murder in May 2022.

Zandstra's body has not been found. Foul play is suspected in her case due to the circumstances involved.

Investigating Agency

  • Butte County Sheriff's Office
  • 530-538-7671
  • 530-538-7434

Updated 4 times since October 12, 2004. Last updated July 23, 2023; details of disappearance updated.