Vladek (Byan) Hasel - Still Missing 4 Years Later

Vladek Hasel has been missing since November 6, 2021. The last verifiable sighting of him was captured on police body cam footage outside a Foxtail Coffee near the University of Central Florida in Orlando. He was calm and polite as officers explained that the business had issued a trespass notice, and then he walked away, coffee in hand. He hasn’t been seen since.

Born in Russia and adopted by a Florida family as a young child, Vladek—whose full name is Brian Vladek Hasel—was known for his kindness, his easy smile, and his compassion for others. He served briefly in the Marine Corps and later devoted much of his time to helping people experiencing homelessness in Orlando, often buying them meals or giving away what little he had. In the months before his disappearance, he was living with his father and searching for a new sense of direction after leaving the military. His family described him as thoughtful, generous, and sometimes deeply introspective, trying to find his place in the world.

In the days leading up to his disappearance, Vladek’s behavior became a little unusual—talking about religion, minimalism, and wanting to live more simply. He had been spending a lot of time walking near his apartment and visiting the same local coffee shop. When his father returned from a short trip, he found that Vladek hadn’t been home. His phone, wallet, and recently purchased pocketknife were still in his room, and a package left on the doorstep remained unopened. Despite searches by law enforcement and volunteers, there has been no confirmed trace of Vladek since that morning in 2021.

His sister, Bethany, has become a tireless advocate—organizing vigils, creating awareness bracelets, attending conferences, and partnering with advocacy groups to keep her brother’s case visible. Each year, she and her family hold a candlelight vigil near the UCF campus to remind the public that Vladek is still missing and that they are still waiting for answers.

Episode 99 of Sins and Survivors features a special collaboration with the team at Navigating Advocacy, who worked closely with Vladek’s family to tell his story. We’re grateful to share their work and help keep attention on his case.

If you have information about the disappearance of Brian “Vladek” Hasel, please contact the Orange County Sheriff’s Office at (407) 254-7000 and reference case number 2183864.

Listen to the episode at sinspod.co/99