Planells was last seen at Luc Eddie's lounge (now called Westgate Tavern) in the 2700 block of Mississippi Avenue on September 24, 1989. He had gone to the lounge with friends. After having a couple of beers, he told his friends he was returning home. He was seen exiting the lounge, getting into his car and driving away. He never arrived home and has never been heard from again. Planells's car, a 1968 Chevrolet Camaro with the Louisiana license plate number 816B554, disappeared with him and was never located; there's no evidence the vehicle was re-registered or sold. The vehicle is bluish-green with numerous rust spots. He left behind his clothes and hasn’t taken any money from his bank account since his disappearance.