What kind of work do you do?

Night Owl Reconnaissance conducts open-source intelligence research focused on missing persons. OSINT refers to publicly available information such as social media content, digital activity, news reports, geospatial data, and open public records. Our researchers review, organize, and analyze this information using structured methods to develop new insights, confirm details, and strengthen the public record. In some cases, our work includes advanced digital and criminal analysis that supports timelines, behavioral patterns, and lead identification.

Why do you only take cases that are 60 days old or older?

Most missing person cases resolve naturally during the first several weeks. People return home, make contact, or are located by law enforcement. Waiting at least 60 days ensures that immediate investigative actions have run their course and that our efforts are focused on cases where long-term support can make the greatest impact.

Why do you focus on adults ages 18 to 65?

Our methodology is designed for adults who maintain independent movement and digital activity. Cases involving minors or adults over 65 require different investigative processes that are best handled by law enforcement and specialized agencies.

Do you share information publicly?

We share limited, responsible information. Many of our findings are passed privately to families or to law enforcement when appropriate. If a missing person is located or a family requests privacy, we respect those wishes fully and remove or restrict related material.

What does a typical investigation look like?

A typical investigation involves reviewing publicly available information, assembling timelines, identifying gaps, mapping digital activity, and evaluating geospatial or contextual clues. Our researchers use structured analytic techniques to identify leads and develop insights. Every step focuses on accuracy, verification, and ethical handling of information.

How do you train your volunteers?

Volunteers complete a structured training program that covers OSINT fundamentals, case assessment, ethical research, and analytic best practices. At the end of training, each volunteer receives a certificate recognizing completion of the program. Ongoing mentorship and role-specific learning continue throughout their time with NOR.

How long do investigations take?

We operate on a set research cycle that allows us to move through cases methodically and provide consistent attention across our workload. Some cases may conclude more quickly, while others require additional time due to complexity, lack of available data, or new developments. The cycle ensures that we can support a larger number of cases while maintaining quality and uniformity in our work.

How does Night Owl Reconnaissance define success?

Success can take many forms. It may involve identifying or confirming a voluntary absence, locating new sources of information, improving a NamUs entry, identifying potential witnesses, clarifying a timeline, or contributing information that supports an ongoing investigation. Not every case leads to a recovery, but any improvement to data accuracy, visibility, or investigative direction is considered meaningful progress. We continue to see steady improvement in our output and in the impact of our analytic contributions year over year.

Who runs Night Owl Reconnaissance?

Night Owl Reconnaissance is run by a volunteer leadership team made up of researchers, analysts, and professionals from a variety of backgrounds. We are a nonprofit organization, not a law enforcement agency. Our work is guided by ethical research practices, structured analytical methods, and a commitment to improving missing person investigations.

Are you part of law enforcement?

No. We are an independent nonprofit. We do not carry law enforcement authority, and we do not perform physical searches or surveillance. If law enforcement requests our support, we will share relevant information responsibly to help clarify case details.

Do you work with law enforcement on cases?

We do not form formal partnerships unless requested by law enforcement. However, we share verified information when it can support an active investigation and when it is responsible to do so. We limit public releases to avoid interfering with ongoing cases or compromising the privacy of families and individuals.

Can I volunteer or contribute?

Yes. We welcome new volunteers and subject-matter experts who want to contribute to our mission. Opportunities include research roles, case assessment, geospatial work, archival support, and advisory contributions from professionals in specialized fields. Details are available on our Join Us page.

Can I donate to support your work?

Yes. Donations help fund awareness campaigns, investigative software, training development, and community outreach. Our Donate Now page outlines current funding goals and how contributions are used.