Episode 21: Siphat Chau - Portland, ME

Early morning on Christmas Eve, in a quiet neighborhood, a college student disappears without a trace. No signs of a struggle, no witnesses, no leads.

Episode Summary

In this episode of True Crime Unwind, we explore the disappearance of Siphat Chau — the theories, the unanswered questions, and the lasting impact on his family nearly 20 years later.

Siphat Chau was known as smart, outgoing, and full of potential — a natural leader who once attended the international Seeds of Peace camp and earned a scholarship to the University of Maine. But behind his bright future, Siphat was struggling with a gambling addiction that put a strain on his finances and family relationships.

On December 24, 2005, Siphat was last seen at his family’s East Deering home in Portland, Maine. By morning, he was gone. His wallet, car, and keys were left behind, with no signs of a struggle. Despite searches, community efforts, and some media coverage, no credible sightings or evidence have ever surfaced.

Missing Person Details

• Name: Siphat “Phat” Chau

• Age at Disappearance: 19 (born July 5, 1986)

• Height/Weight: 5’8”, 140 lbs

• Appearance: Asian male of Vietnamese descent, black hair, brown eyes, scar on chin

• Last Seen Wearing: Red sweatshirt, blue jeans, Timberland boots, possibly a black suede jacket, and a beanie hat

• Last Seen: December 24, 2005 – East Deering neighborhood, Portland, Maine

If you have any information, please contact the Portland Police Department at (207) 874-8479.

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