NORTH CAROLINA (LOOTPRESS) – A desperate search is underway for a North Carolina woman who disappeared after apparently going swimming while vacationing on the Caribbean island of Grenada.
Elizabeth “Liz” Waddell, 44, of Cary, was last seen Wednesday, July 22, in the Grand Anse Beach area of St. George’s, according to the Royal Grenada Police Force.
Waddell had traveled to Grenada with a friend, and the two were staying at an Airbnb near Grand Anse Bay.
Amanda Romano-Harmon, a longtime friend serving as a spokesperson for Waddell’s family, said Waddell put on a swimsuit, grabbed a towel and went outside while her friend finished an online class.
When the class ended, the friend went looking for Waddell but could not find her. Waddell’s towel was later discovered on a pier.
Waddell reportedly left her cellphone and identification inside the Airbnb.
Security video from a nearby bar and grill reportedly showed Waddell on the pier before she entered the water and began swimming. She eventually moved outside the camera’s view and has not been seen since.
When several hours passed without her returning, her friend contacted Waddell’s husband and reported her missing.
Grenadian authorities immediately launched a search involving police, Coast Guard personnel and divers. Fishermen, boat operators and residents along the island’s southern coastline have also been asked to report any possible sightings.
Waddell’s husband, Cailen Waddell, issued an emotional plea on social media as he traveled to Grenada to assist with the search.
“I expect nothing less than Liz’s safe return,” he wrote while asking others to send prayers and support.
Waddell’s husband, adult daughter, twin sister and several friends have since traveled to the island to help search for her.
Romano-Harmon described Waddell as a “ray of sunshine” and an experienced traveler who enjoys meeting new people. She said the disappearance has left Waddell’s family devastated and searching for answers.
Waddell is the founder of Art of Movement Physical Therapy.
She is described as having a medium build and short blond hair. Anyone with information about her whereabouts is urged to contact the South Saint George Police Station or the Royal Grenada Police Force.
