Van Appeldoorn was reported missing in early August 2024. An extensive search at that time yielded no information about the whereabouts of the Barnevelder. The German police found no identification or other items on the deceased person that could lead to recognition.
Through Interpol, the Dutch police received information that there might be a match between a deceased man in Germany and a missing person from the Netherlands. Further investigation was conducted, which recently resulted in the definitive identification. The relatives of Van Appeldoorn have been informed.