Bonick disappeared from his residence in the vicinity of the 2000 block of Ginnever Street in San Mateo, California during the morning hours of February 22, 1970. He was later seen hitchhiking on State Route 92, possibly en route to Half Moon Bay, California. Two friends reported seeing him a month later at the Mayfair Market. He has never been heard from again. Bonick was staying at a children's home and was on a weekend pass when he disappeared.

Bonick's family believe he left with his friend, Rick Lamson, who disappeared in March of that year. It's unclear whether Lamson was also reported missing or if he was ever found. Few details are available in Bonick's case.