A man who collapsed on a street in Amsterdam three years ago is now believed to be a missing Canadian who disappeared over three decades ago, sparking investigations on both sides of the Atlantic.
Referred to as “Lucky” by Amsterdam police, the man suffered a stroke or brain hemorrhage on May 10, 2023, leaving him with aphasia, a condition affecting language abilities. He had no identification, used various nicknames, and left little official or digital trace behind, paying most expenses in cash.
After exhausting leads, a cold case unit took over and released a video appeal that generated multiple tips, some pointing towards a potential Canadian connection. The man bears a striking resemblance to John Russell Kenny, who went missing from Vancouver over 30 years ago, known for mental health challenges and a transient lifestyle.
Clues suggest a connection between Lucky and Kenny, including acquaintances recalling Kenny’s American or Canadian-sounding accent when speaking English, as well as the usage of multiple nicknames. Vancouver police are actively collaborating with authorities in the Netherlands and Interpol to confirm the man’s identity.
While DNA testing requires a family member’s involvement, police remain cautious about prematurely identifying Lucky as Kenny based solely on appearances. Lucky currently resides in an Amsterdam care facility, where he struggles to communicate and make independent decisions.
Before his collapse, Lucky was associated with a Buddhist community in Amsterdam and may have ties to Nepal. Retired Dutch detectives are spearheading efforts to uncover his true identity in hopes of reuniting him with any potential family members and bringing some light to his otherwise somber story.
