Originally Posted by
thestrauch
Long story short
I think we need the long version, addressing at least the following:
1. When did you wake up and notice the problem?
2. "without even asking the person (me) whose seat it was directly underneath". How do you know it was under that seat? Did the FA tell you it was retrieved from there? Did you put it there yourself?
3. Were you under the influence of something which could have interfered with your memory of the removal process, or which could have made it impossible to get a response from you? Ambien or alcohol, especially in combination, can do this.
I concur that you could have lost your items entirely. In that way you are fortunate. The degree of blame Southwest bears depends on the facts. Your long version will help us give you informed opinions.