Solving His Best Friend's Suspicious Death | Deception, False Identity, and Tragedy | Real Stories

Looking For Mike (Mysterious Death Documentary) | Real Stories
Looking For Mike follows filmmaker Dylan Reibling as he investigates the mysterious death of his friend, computer salesman Michael De Bourcier. Mike's sudden death in 2002 has remained an unsolved cold case with the Toronto Police - until the filmmakers started digging deeper. They attempt to uncover his real identity, search for his family and friends, and try to understand the strange series of events leading up to his death.
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Produced by First Love Films

[@bunnybreaker]

"James was your brother?" "Is my brother, yes." My heart sank.

[@nicoledenning8090]

I know! OOPSIE

[@birdbrainz6557]

My heart breaks!

[@richebronsonify]

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.)

[@rebeculus]

yup...

[@jonny5746]

She knew at that moment but I believe they've expected to hear that for a long time. Such a sad but satisfying story.

[@sonial.3332]

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.

[@ntt2478]

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.

[@TheIndependentLens]

Wolfgang Kulik pumpkins, did you watch this? They did hangout outside of work. What's up with the email address? Desperate?

[@Argenturtle]

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!

[@manichairdo6346]

Tracey Hunter what is a homie?

[@rudolphgoliath7897]

Homie. noun · informal an acquaintance from one's town or neighbourhood, or a member of one's peer group or gang.

[@TheSilverwing999]

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.

[@victorianchristmaslady9481]

Totally agree handled it brilliantly

[@mysteryminx2619]

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.

[@SweetChicagoGator]

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.💓

[@james5796]

A beautiful story; Dylan's tenacity in getting the truth and the great detective's managing a very tricky situation really was just heartening

[@sillystephys7123]

12 years of searching and you gave his family closure. You are an awesome individual

[@ranterredhead5005]

Wow....

[@sallyviolet13]

Agreed. My thoughts exactly

[@michaeljoseph3528]

An awesome story of true friendship/brotherly love. Thanks for sharing it. God bless you.

[@btchyprincesssarah]

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. . .

[@cmoriarty6854]

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.

[@debbie6712]

Sometimes being rich doesn't always mean money. Sometimes it means having a friend like Dylan.

[@mandywood3327]

Thank you for your humanity and for sharing Dylan. Special.

[@jhonfamo8412]

I will take love and friends over money any day. It's rarer

[@olamarca7171]

He was in love with Mike. People, it is so obvious... :D

[@emilyrinearson7446]

that gave me chills

[@MsTinkerbelle87]

The best things on life aren’t things :)

[@thisisit3333]

We should all be so lucky to have a friend like Dylan.

[@yesterdaydream]

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.

[@TheMattc999]

👍

[@rogerirvemalm6116]

Agree!

[@terryramsey1484]

Totally agree. What an amazing friend!

[@terryramsey1484]

I have a few friends that would do that. I would hope I would be that kind of friend.

[@MoniB888]

Same, just rewatched and still just as moved. ❤️✨

[@luvsilly60]

Retired Detective is total class. Missing 22 years. Dead for 12. Powerful closure.

[@cruisepaige]

luvsilly60 yeah that phone call!!!!

[@gregnyg6191]

Mesmerizing!!!!😊👍

[@shayrenae4139]

Detectives probably dont get a lot of closure in these type of cases. This must of been extraordinary for all involved.

[@Holy_hand-grenade]

This guy is possibly the most likeable guy I have ever seen.

[@richebronsonify]

Holy_Hand_Grenade-of-Antioch A very kind soul indeed. ❤️

[@TheBasqueWasp]

Too likeable to be true

[@HiLoveLeighs]

Truly

[@am2023]

@@adelaidemcmillan3176 my thoughts as well

[@erickahackett1132]

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💞💞💞💞🤞

[@casper1959]

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.

[@ViaMirage]

Dylan didn't know this guy that long, but he got super emotionally connected to him.

[@carmenpayne838]

Very touching story Dylan is the sort if friend i would like to have

[@W.Khairi]

Agreed 100%

[@user-ke8ys1rg7k]

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... ♥️

[@zappababe8577]

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.

[@TM-jz9nt]

Dylan, the security guard at the cemetery, and the private investigator... all of them, A class people. Amazing personalities...

[@penelopespearhead868]

The school librarian too.

[@shawndarren6698]

That's the attitude and personality of Canadians..

[@hoagiemacintosh781]

“God bless you!”

[@dawnbreak3299]

Canada.... if it wasnt so cold I'd of moved there long ago

[@toddnineeightseven9595]

openview ???

[@SimplyComplicatedGal]

Dylan's face when the investigator calls the family shows so much. He has a pure heart.

[@ricoluciano527]

Or a absolute phyco

[@fraukie1598]

And Dylan's face could be used for the white balance ;)

[@hevbushnell4013]

Yeah when he says WAS your brother 🙄😠

[@jaredwainwright395]

@@ricoluciano527 pp

[@ashleelarsen5002]

I love your music :)

[@saras.8403]

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.

[@terryramsey1484]

I like that word ",,pure" for Dylan. He's definitely an amazing person

[@SweetChicagoGator]

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. 🙏💓

[@andyandcallie]

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.

[@lisaj.8013]

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... ♥️

[@hazelbrownn]

Yes I thought so too. Very sweet guy x

[@beagledog2001]

it was pretty cute, yes///

[@yeshuaischrist9951]

Dorky

[@dawnbreak3299]

Yup never done it however I find it adorable that you find it adorable lol

[@helenetrstrup4817]

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. 😆

[@connermt74]

Haven’t watched something this good and engaging and honest on KZbin in a long time.

[@MzSuzy2698]

Missle Toe You do realize that this is scripted. The story may be true but the video is scripted.

[@JadedBelle]

@@MzSuzy2698 How exactly does that fact make the story any less honest? I mean...really?

[@CutieRingoJoy]

Suzanne Bodette have you heard what a documentary is?

[@paulinevahedi4797]

Me either!

[@Anonymous-zx3do]

I agree!

[@jenniferlewis6944]

I watch A LOT of docs on YT. This one is, by far, the most emotional, meaningful, and rewarding. Thank you.

[@jenniferl6553]

same

[@joetoday7273]

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.

[@generationx9294]

@joe today So well said, I agree with you wholeheartedly 🙏🏽🕊💜

[@Lipanj92]

It's been 22 years since he disappeared in 1992 until 2014 when this was filmed.

[@troysparks3772]

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 ✌️

[@brandireneecrosby5361]

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.

[@magency17]

Dylan should become a PI, he did most of the work.

[@lmc2664]

magency17 that’s right. David is now working for Dylan. 😊

[@shrimpflea]

He's too nice to be a PI

[@lisawrigley5015]

What a thoroughly decent man Dylan is.

[@daveclark3921]

Lisa Wrigley wat a super guy a real true Friend god bless him and all his family

[@sonial.3332]

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.

[@randoguyo2562]

+Sonia Lobel ya.... you said that... verbatim haha

[@B6east]

Yep. Handsome, too.

[@scottinbristol]

@Sonia L How many times are you gonna reply that to comments? We get it, bish

[@angieallsup]

I’m so glad the family and Dillon found closure. Very professionally filmed and put together. Should win a short film award 🥇

[@vickimaccallumvlogs]

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 👏🏻

[@rlm4874]

As a mother, it would be very comforting & mean everything to know he had a friend like this.

[@mspiper2852]

Violet I felt the same while watching. They obviously had a deep friendship - that would’ve brought me comfort , that he wasn’t alone.

[@EphemeralProductions]

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.

[@dragonsember]

because of him they know what happened to him

[@rlm4874]

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.

[@rlm4874]

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.

[@cleoalvaro3264]

The respect that Security Guard had was beautiful.

[@Mandy7D7]

I agree, it touched me too.

[@jawnsushi]

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. :)

[@lizhall4473]

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.

[@SuperChoronzon]

@@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.

[@lizhall4473]

@@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

[@Cookie-kk9dc]

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.

[@wendyrosson27]

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.

[@Lina_903]

Dylan is the human equivalent of a golden retriever

[@Coincidence_Theorist]

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.

[@Zman888]

Not really. Golden retrievers are one of the dumbest breeds 🥱

[@robertadinoia3347]

Linnéa n is it good?

[@jpwhataboutit]

Nothing better than the loyalty and love of a golden retriever.

[@EpicObjectShows]

I HATE THESE COMMENTS

[@myuhdidas]

Literally breath taking. That man has a heart of pure gold. My faith in humanity is briefly restored

[@myuhdidas]

@Iansain the great can you please take your negativity elsewhere? thanks.

[@myuhdidas]

@@dapje2002ok now break all that down to me like im 5 years old lmao

[@saffron-scotchuniversalone2042]

Iansain the great they were friends. I’d do the same. Nice outlook on life, buddy.

[@myuhdidas]

@@saffron-scotchuniversalone2042 lol, right. Smh.

[@JimA-pp2nu]

"literally" ?

[@TRFAD]

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".

[@Ms_MalRkey]

Me too...glad I watched this.

[@TRFAD]

@@Ms_MalRkey lucky us 😀

[@Ms_MalRkey]

@@TRFAD Ngl I would like to read this book lol

[@HobbesRN]

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.

[@noneyabusinezz6671]

Give Dylan his own series helping others find loved ones. He's very captivating.

[@micklemons8885]

None ya businezz don't lie, it's just the beard.

[@tarantulabunnydog]

I would watch a series by him

[@monatippins7140]

A great idea!

[@debchancy2304]

None ya businezz: Really I never noticied LOL (so obvious).

[@Wouldyoujust_]

@@micklemons8885 The beard IS pretty epic.

[@nhmisnomer]

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.

[@sarahl3721]

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.

[@BhappyD]

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!

[@lindyashford7744]

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.

[@kenanmorg4677]

I'm surprised that the private investigator hired by Dylan didn't go through the missing persons photos himself as part of his due diligence.....I wonder how much money Dylan had to pay that guy only to discover the key to the case himself. That aside, this is a wonderful, moving story. Thank you.

[@laurengriffin5713]

Also sad that the police were probably never going to do enough work to solve it. Looks like we need all these missing person databases to be connected with facial recognition software doing cross scans..

[@SomeUnkindledAsh]

I think the p.i. just makes the documentary more interesting. It gives an "official" tone to parts and adds a different personality and perspective. I think he was just a prop really.

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

Cost, perhaps? If Dylan was paying what difference who did the looking?

[@BrigitteGoodman]

Some people really just think in dollars. Shame on you!

[@jjlccnv4231]

To me it seemed smarter for Dylan to do that because he knew him personally.

[@telvinegberts87]

Dylan is a pure definition of "real friendship ",so rare to find......🙏👊

[@sheila7909]

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

[@lozzylols]

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!

[@TLovetoDance012]

@@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.

[@danarzechula3769]

@@TLovetoDance012 they were pretty matter of fact on the phone while Dylan was so emotional

[@johnnyu.9823]

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.

[@Anonymous-zx3do]

I pray that you find your brother. I cannot imagine how heartbreaking it must be.

[@johnnyu.9823]

Thank you guys for the kind words.

[@lydiapetra1211]

May God help you find your brother...🙏

[@kimberlyabettes3525]

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. ❤

[@Anonymous-54545]

Hey Johnny, make sure you FOIA the files and see what the police actually know so far.

[@justjonni9330]

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!!!!

[@EcecVeron]

This is the kind of guy you want to be bestfriends with. May there be many more like him.

[@gerardmartin6163]

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.

[@ChrisLee-UK]

Or still do but haven't realised it yet..

[@mslovely351]

Gerard Martin Same

[@smittysmeee]

You can be that someone in another person's life.

[@TruthIsTheNewHate84]

@@smittysmeee i like that reply. People who think like you make the world a better place. I hope you're doing good.

[@kimberlyabettes3525]

Oh, man. That last line hit me.

[@bryhalla]

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.

[@asullivan2098]

Great story . Police should work so hard

[@TheIndependentLens]

@@asullivan2098 Many do and just stop.

[@ridinwithjake]

shame that the guy just turned out to be a small caliber crook and that was the entire reason for the mystery

[@amyc9155]

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

[@heidi196]

@@amyc9155 maybe u shouldn't scroll straight to the comments if ur that worried about it

[@angiehull5518]

Dylan and the PI were born to find answers, I hope they would continue to work together to help other people find peace with there missing loved ones.

[@Bengal-BoyRyu]

What a great story. Not many people have a friend like Dylan. RIP Jim it's sad you had to die alone when you had such a loving family.

[@themulti-coloredcanary5795]

Dylan has the kindest eyes! This was amazing!

[@kerie.krieglmeier243]

👀

[@jessyg17]

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.

[@truthhurts88]

jessyg17 use your tears for lube

[@christinamoller5742]

What a wonderful friend. Doesn’t exactly hurt to look at him either! 😹☺️

[@danielles2265]

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. ❤️

[@ciaraconover2290]

All the graves without tombstones, it's a sad reality. There's no reason for them to be so expensive.

[@jhonfamo8412]

No we all end going to dust. It should not be a year's salary to be buried

[@gregnyg6191]

It's an old saying... "Life is expensive, Death is cheap"...

[@richardernsberger5692]

@@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.

[@jhonfamo8412]

@@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

[@SZF123456]

When I die just throw me in the trash

[@stevieb7865]

This story is unbelievable. Dylan, you’re a special person with a big heart.

[@kerie.krieglmeier243]

❤

[@Adrianosteger]

and good looking too

[@stevieb7865]

Strange Boy Possibly, but that’s not really our business though. Xoxo

[@MyMissingPeace]

Woah this is a thought provoking case. It’s dogged determination coming from the emotional pain and hope of a brilliant man. One man who never gave up. One amazing man.

[@amelia_k1082]

What a beautiful and heartfelt story. I'm so satisfied that Dylan followed this through to the end. I could only wish to have a friend so loyal and loving. And for his family, I'm sure they're forever grateful to Dylan. RIP James a.k.a. Mike

[@jessi4894]

Man, Dylan needs to write a book, he would make such a compelling author, he has had such a way with words

[@rustyalcorta3643]

Jessica Walling I agree this would make a great book.

[@pclarkey1988]

Well He is kinda.. He is a film maker himself...

[@taras6806]

Violet... well naturally he has a way with words when making a documentary for himself!

[@ibuprofenPill]

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.

[@saveriosalemme5366]

ibuprofenPill There was closure for his mother and sister.

[@marklittler784]

@SiViX Yeah but sorting out your funeral at 33 though.

[@merlith4650]

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

[@LOBOIV]

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.

[@adrienne403]

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.

[@eoindowling3889]

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.

[@marcykeeley7709]

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

[@ronfroehlich4697]

Mike probably thought that he didn't want to spend several years in prison getting raped and beaten up by blue collar criminals

[@twincherry4958]

No just embarrassment, he was worried about the stigma.

[@magdalenamezydlo1271]

So true!

[@margiewinslow872]

I can't tell you how touched I was by this story. And to solve the mystery yet bring heartache to a family. Rest in peace Mike/Jim. Bless you Dylan.

[@LibbyLibbyBrooks]

May we all aspire to be a friend like him and lucky enough to have one in our lives.

[@lydiapetra1211]

Amen to that!

[@poetcinema6964]

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.

[@hellagood30]

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.

[@klaudiasulima9911]

ohhh- I cried when the family was thanking Dylan and talking about James, this is so touching. Dylan is the kind of unforgettable individual that comes along every once in a lifetime.

[@clovisg5145]

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!

[@thureintun1687]

you aren't straight mr. You wanting to eat Dylan's meat right?

[@taylormoe96]

This makes me wonder how many other people have gone “missing” but on purpose and they just haven’t been recognized yet.

[@susankeith326]

It's not as uncommon as you might think.

[@lozzylols]

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.

[@montanaelkwhisperer1744]

Me. Noone will know who i was when i die.

[@montanaelkwhisperer1744]

@@lozzylols the trick is getting valid documents with a new identity.

[@montanaelkwhisperer1744]

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!!

[@aria3329]

This was wonderful. Thank God for Dylan and his perseverance. An amazing gift for Jim's mother and sister to know what happened to him...priceless.

[@Carol-D.1324]

I couldn’t tear myself away from beginning to end. This was so incredibly well and thoughtfully put together. Amazing job.

[@omotolaa.3006]

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 ☺️

[@lmf0114]

I was thinking the same thing. Good comment.

[@nancyhoward7005]

True

[@musclemanflores4375]

relax like proverbs thats a chapter with mostly poetry style verses YOU HARLOTE

[@angie38]

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.

[@christiecoats33]

Dylan, your perseverance is amazing! I couldn't keep my eyes off this story. What a wonderful friend you are. The ending is so touching!

[@crystal.knightrwe]

You solved a mystery and helped heal wounds. That's worth the 12 years it took to find your friends real identity. Amazing story.

[@marija2905]

Wish that everybody can have one Dylan in our lives....what a FRIEND

[@amandala00]

Wowww to my surprise, I was not expecting to see this type of documentary on KZbin. 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 ✌🏼💚

[@enlightenedsister9408]

WoW ! This moved me to tears.. It's good to know there are still good, selfless people on this crazy planet full of egos and narcissists! Thank You Dylan ❤

[@pambb5743]

Everyone should have a friend like Dylan. Everyone should be a friend like Dylan. God Bless this special man that didn’t stop looking for his friend. God Bless “ Mikes” family.

[@GaySingleMulatto]

The cinematography is perfect. As is the editing. Exceptional quality production.

[@sycamoresally6303]

Adrian Collins Are you the cinematographer? JK...they did a really nice job.

[@Jack-oz4bf]

Yeah because that's the moral of the story, Jesus man get your head out of the gutter.

[@mrs.hopwinkle6034]

Man, whoever is lucky enough to have Dylan in their lives... My heart aches. What a wonderful man.

[@cristinajaime361]

He found not only his own closure but his family closure too! Wow Dylan... your an angel walking on earth!!

[@dannycowan4579]

Absolutely wonderful and kind work done by his friend because he didn't have to go on for 13yrs looking for his friend. But thanks too his bravery and courage and also his respect for the friend, he helped that family know what happened to there loved one. My respects too his friend. Good on you!!!

[@teresitacallard5320]

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.

[@DanielaGarcia-bs2ot]

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..

[@ANIMALSQUAD13]

Å

[@davinastanton3865]

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. ❤

[@davinastanton3865]

teresita callard Me too dear.❤

[@TheHoriyoshi]

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....

[@a.walters123]

When Dylan hugged his sister and they both cried, I lost it.

[@kells77]

Dav serban she lost it

[@Coincidence_Theorist]

You could feel it through the screen that they wanted to hug before they did or I could at least.

[@markwilliamson8047]

Me too.

[@user-pampam70634]

Wow, how awesome it is that Dylan found his friend and solved the mystery of him missing. I still have a lump in my throat from watching this documentary. What a man you are Dylan, a true friend till the end. His family is so blessed that you found them and were able to give them closure on what happened to Jim. God bless you all!

[@chrisS19019]

I’m so glad his family gave him what he was looking for too, he just wanted to know someone else missed Mike/Jim too

[@peytonweb]

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🙏💙😢

[@patsmith5947]

I have tears in my eyes too, it’s such a sad story but what a good friend Dylan was.

[@chrisjamasali1123]

This guy is a TRUE FRIEND ❤️❤️❤️

[@tarawells1553]

Chris Jamasali I think exactly the same. My best friends from infant school forget to text me back......don’t think they’d ever put that much effort 12 years down the line!

[@sassyladybug1908]

I lost my younger brother on Father's Day 2021. He has been estranged from family for 2 decades. We only found out he passed when the police contacted a family member. He was also found in his apartment, and died alone. It's really difficult to have such a sad ending after the length of time wondering why he made such decisions, and what could have and would have. He left his wife and son before his 1st birthday. My heart goes out to the families who are going through the same.

[@simoneseiami5938]

Their friendship was not forgotten by Dylan. He moved so much in all our hearts and of course James sister and mother. What a story.... if MIke alias James ( Jim) would had known how much he was loved and preciated. Dylan seems to be a very caring person, its so moving. This story is so touching.

[@jadiquaify]

Dylan is like the perfect friend none of my friends would search that much for me lol .

[@polferiferus1938]

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.

[@AmbientShades]

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.

[@wonka4]

AmbientShade Hmm. Are you saying they were in a relationship?

[@julietvijn1545]

AmbientShade i kinda agree with you. There seems to be more at least on Dylan’s part

[@OdinX316]

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!!!

[@mswsjsu]

Simply incredible Dylan. I wish I had a friend like you!

[@sueharviel6510]

Blown away! Great story. Love that you got the answers you were looking for as did his family. The production was amazing.

[@TaterRogers]

Dylan, you were a great friend. Most people would not have taken the initiative. There are so many cold cases out there that families are waiting for answer for. You were able to give 3 people closure. My hats off to you sir.

[@DrGarri]

Dylan, what a fine man you are, anyone would be honored and so lucky to have a friend like you.

[@catmagic2226]

Alejandro G was thinking the Same Thing...not many people like Dylan, sad to say.

[@DrGarri]

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.

[@Jasmineliketheflower]

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.

[@peacenow42]

A funeral under an assumed name? Weird.

[@1purplerose]

Jasmine liketheflower Plausible.

[@jhufelcarcellar463]

Prepaid if a week or two before he died ..hmmmm??

[@gothicMCRgirl]

@@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.

[@selah71]

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.

[@lennartforsberg1519]

This is better than all the true crimes podcasts you can watch on KZbin.

[@lissajean]

I really liked this story. I'm so glad that Dylan found out the truth about his work friend Mike. Even though there was no violence or crime, it was good to have closure when someone leaves and changes his identity.

[@Nanapoo]

his friend looked like such genuine and sweet person, his eyes were so pure ;_; you are a good person, thanks for helping his family!

[@DarcieGlam]

Everybody should have a friend like Dylan.

[@dawnbreak3299]

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

[@chuckemmorll2821]

Dylan should have a friend like Dylan.

[@missmee7210]

What a good man you are Dylan. You did a great thing here just by not giving up.

[@jonathanbennetts2632]

This has been the best thing I have watched on KZbin for a long time, thank you for posting this.

[@MaggieJean]

Very emotional story. Only takes one person to care. A bittersweet event.