Even if that is the case, it doesn't really give him reason to abandon it without a word. I know that it's scary to admit defeat or need help, it is better than having assumptions made about your capabilities, courage, or personality.
I just remembered the time a young guy who was working on making a 2D version of The Ocarina of Time pretended to have died so that he could abandon the project without that kind of fallout.
As mk mentioned, I have met JV a few times. He lives in North Carolina about 2.5 hours from where I do. When I am in his neck of the woods, I would grab a bite to eat with him and discuss Hubski, family, the Internet etc. He's a really bright guy, an artist and musician. In fact, he gave me a painting of his that I have hanging in my office. Anyways, my guess is that he is having troubles of a personal nature.