Nicole Baldwin was 41 years old when she disappeared from her home in Mount Dora, Florida, during the early morning hours of November 2, 2023. She was a wife, mother of three, and originally from Germany. Her disappearance quickly drew the attention of investigators because of the unusual circumstances and the lack of evidence suggesting she left voluntarily. 

Nicole was last seen at her home in the Lancaster at Loch Leven subdivision after celebrating her oldest daughter's 20th birthday the previous day. According to investigators, she was believed to have left the home wearing only a pink nightgown and without shoes. Her vehicle remained at the residence, along with her purse, cell phone, Apple Watch, medication, debit cards, and other personal belongings. Family members said it was completely out of character for Nicole to leave without contacting her children or taking the items she relied on every day. 

As the investigation progressed, detectives conducted numerous searches around Mount Dora, including nearby lakes, ponds, wooded areas, and neighborhoods. Volunteers also assisted in searches, but no trace of Nicole was found. Investigators later announced they did not believe she had disappeared voluntarily and began treating the case as a homicide investigation, even though her body has never been located. 

In 2025, investigators received information that led them to a retention pond in Deltona, Florida. The area became the focus of an extensive search that continued into 2026. With assistance from the Florida Department of Transportation and multiple law enforcement agencies, crews drained the four-acre pond, excavated the bottom, sifted through mud and debris, and used cadaver dogs and metal detectors in an effort to locate evidence connected to Nicole's disappearance. Despite several days of searching, investigators announced that no evidence was recovered from the pond. They emphasized, however, that the investigation remains active and that they continue to pursue new leads. 

Authorities have released very little information about potential suspects, although they have publicly stated they do not believe Nicole left on her own. The case remains an active criminal investigation, and detectives continue to seek information that could explain what happened to her after she disappeared. More than two years later, Nicole has never been found, and her disappearance remains unsolved. 

Anyone with information about Nicole Baldwin's disappearance is urged to contact the Mount Dora Police Department at (352) 735-7130. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS (8477). A reward has been offered for information leading to an arrest in the case.