McDonald was last seen at his residence in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana on June 3, 2009. He was a street performer, classical guitarist and silver mime (a mime who dresses in all silver clothes and silver face paint) at the time of his disappearance, working in the vicinity of St. Claude and Franklin Avenue. He came home from work 9:30 p.m., then left his residence on foot at 10:00 p.m., carrying his guitar and a small amount of cash. His bicycle had a flat tire and he left it behind at his residence. It was assumed McDonald had spent the night with a man he knew. The next day, the man said McDonald had gone to Arkansas with another musician. The musician, however, stated he had asked McDonald but McDonald had refused to go with him. He has never been heard from again.

McDonald was previously featured in three books and one documentary about street performers. His loved ones stated he has a very trusting nature, but he doesn't hitchhike and he doesn't like sudden changes. His case remains unsolved.