Roy Frisch – 6 of Spades, Nevada

Dubbed “the most famous missing man in Nevada” by local press, Roy Frisch was a bright light during an otherwise dark, lawless time in 1930s Reno. Yes, you read that right…1930s. This is the oldest case we’ve covered so far on this show. Roy disappeared almost 90 years ago, so while it’s not possible to punish those responsible for his death, thanks to newfound permission from a property owner, there is now serious potential his remains could be recovered, and just maybe, Roy can finally rest in peace.

Roy Frisch - 6 of Spades - Nevada

Courtesy of Reno Police Department

Episode Info

If you have any information about the disappearance and supposed murder of Roy Frisch in 1935, please contact the Reno Police Department’s Homicide Unit at (775) 334-2188, or you can anonymously report information by calling Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900. You can also visit Secret Witness on Reno PD’s website to submit a tip anonymously, or send an email to rpdcoldcases@reno.gov.

To apply for a Cold Case Playing Card grant through Season of Justice, please visit www.seasonofjustice.org.

Roy Frisch was 47 years old when he disappeared.

Roy Frisch was 47 years old when he disappeared. Courtesy: Reno Police Department
The Frisch Family Home on 247 Court Street.

The Frisch Family Home on 247 Court Street. Courtesy: Reno Police Department
The Wingfield mansion.

The Wingfield mansion. Courtesy: Reno Police Department
“Baby Face Nelson” (Lester Gillis). Gillis and/or members of his mob cohort are believed to be likely involved with the alleged murder of Roy Frisch.

“Baby Face Nelson” (Lester Gillis). Gillis and/or members of his mob cohort are believed to be likely involved with the alleged murder of Roy Frisch. Courtesy: Reno Police Department
John Paul Chase, who admitted he had witnessed the murder of Roy Frisch, and helped cover it up.

John Paul Chase, who admitted he had witnessed the murder of Roy Frisch, and helped cover it up. Courtesy: Reno Police Department
The submachine gun that was recovered from the river that could potentially be tied to Roy Frisch’s supposed murder. Today, the gun hangs in a glass case at the Reno Police Department, along with a short explanation of its vivid history.

The submachine gun that was recovered from the river that could potentially be tied to Roy Frisch’s supposed murder. Today, the gun hangs in a glass case at the Reno Police Department, along with a short explanation of its vivid history. Courtesy: Photo taken by audiochuck staff.
Area where the former Wingfield mansion used to be located. If all goes as planned, Sgt. Laura Conklin and her team will be excavating this area some time in 2024 in search of Roy Frisch’s remains.

Area where the former Wingfield mansion used to be located. If all goes as planned, Sgt. Laura Conklin and her team will be excavating this area some time in 2024 in search of Roy Frisch’s remains. Courtesy: Photo taken by audiochuck staff.

Episode Source Material