I can't find the local files

The project file by itself is not helpful. The files are not inside the project, the project only holds a link to where the files were when you 'imported' them. I've accidently moved a folder to another place by a too-quick click, so I do suggest you try 'Everything', put in part of a file name, see if it comes up.

You need to be more complete in your posts. You didn't even say Win or Mac. In Windows we have the Recycle Bin where by default files go when they are deleted, so check there. Otherwise, make sure you are searching well. 

"Everything" is the best search software I've ever used: Free/Donation ware: https://www.voidtools.com/

Do you have backups?

Did you look in the Recycle Bin?