Sons of missing Chinese immigrant couple from Old Brookville have returned to China, lawyer says

More than three months after a Chinese immigrant couple were listed as missing from their mansion in Old Brookville, their sons who were living in the home mostly by themselves have returned to China to be with other family, an attorney for the children said.

Long Island attorney John Carman, who is representing the 20-year-old son, Yiwei Fan, confirmed on Tuesday to Newsday that the young man and his 12-year-old brother had returned to China in recent days.

The parents, Peishuan Fan, 48, and his wife, JuanJuan Zwang, 44, were last seen at the home on Maria Lane on March 30. They were reported missing the next day, and both the Nassau County Police Department and the FBI have been investigating their disappearance.

On Wednesday, Nassau Det. Lt. Scott Skrynecki said the probe into the disappearances was still active. 

According to Carman, Fan had a business near the city of Shanghai before he came to the United States. Fan had been detained in China before immigrating to the United States for up to two months by authorities, although it was unclear if that was for a civil or criminal matter, said Carman.

Both Yiwei Fan and his brother had been living alone in the 6,000-square-foot home purchased in late 2023 for $3.8 million in cash. Neighbors said food deliveries were often made to the home. Sometimes U.S.-based relatives would visit the sons, Carman said.

Carman indicated that it was possible the return to China might be temporary.

The younger son had recently graduated from fifth grade at Glen Head Elementary School, according to a congratulatory sign posted on the front lawn of the home.

A neighbor who regularly watches the property but didn’t want to be identified for privacy reasons had seen activity in the home in recent months and cars entering the large front driveway. But the property appeared neglected with uncut grass, said the neighbor.

 Just the 20-year-old and Zwang, also known in records as "Zhang," are on the deed for the property. Fan’s name is not listed on property records.

Carman said that Yiwei Fan had access to certain financial accounts so there was money to provide for living and household expenses. But it was unclear how long the money would last.

By Anthony M. DeStefano

tony.destefano@newsday.comtonynewsday

Anthony M. DeStefano has been a reporter for Newsday since 1986 and covers law enforcement, criminal justice and legal affairs from its New York City offices.