Feb 17, 2025 By Jon Andreassi 2 min read

The family of a Washington County man who has been missing for nearly two years will hold a fundraiser next month with the intent of hiring a private investigator.

Matthew Clark McDonald, 37, of California, was last seen in the borough on March 9, 2023.

A spaghetti dinner and bingo night will be held from 3 to 8 p.m. March 8 at Alpine Club Lanes in Washington.

Beth Roth, McDonald’s mother, was born and raised in Washington but now lives in Wheeling, W.Va. She said the family has received little information on her son’s case from California police.

“When somebody gives us information, I hand it over to the police. I also try to investigate it myself,” Roth said. “Obviously, we can only do so much since we aren’t law enforcement.”

Washington County District Attorney Jason Walsh declined to comment on specifics of the case. California police did not return a phone call.

“All information has been investigated, every tip and lead,” Walsh said.

Roth hopes to use proceeds from the spaghetti dinner to hire a private investigator.

She acknowledged it is likely that McDonald is no longer alive, but she hopes to find her son and gain closure.

“My life stopped two years ago. I can’t move forward without knowing where he is. If he is gone, I would like to put him to rest and be able to grieve the way I should,” Roth said.

She has also been operating a Facebook group, “Where is Matthew??” to try and gather information on her son’s disappearance. Those interested in donating food or supplies for the fundraiser can get in touch with her via the Facebook page.

Roth plans to form a 501c3 nonprofit to set up a bank account for donated funds.

“We have been bombarded with messages to donate. I’ve already got enough sauce to start a couple batches,” Roth said.