Find better use of the word 'missing'

When did the word missing become a destination? In recent years government officials and the media often state that someone has "gone missing." To me that expression implies intent on the person who can't be found. I picture someone waking one morning and telling family or friends that "I'm going missing today" the same way she or he would say "I'm going shopping this afternoon."

Wouldn't it be more concise and accurate to report that "he or she is missing"? Just a personal reaction to a curious phrase that has bothered me for some time.

Glenn F. Arnold | Wheaton