Search Continues for Missing American Woman in Grenada

An active search is underway for Elizabeth “Liz” Waddell, a 44-year-old woman from North Carolina, who vanished during her vacation in Grenada. The Royal Grenada Police Force reported her missing after she was last seen near Grand Anse Beach in St. George’s.

Waddell, who traveled to the island nation with a friend, had gone missing after appearing to go for a swim, as noted by a family friend. Her towel was discovered on the pier, suggesting she had entered the water. Waddell was staying at the Hideaway Waterfront Apartments in the Grand Anse area, as reported by the Grenada Broadcasting Network (GBN).

The police have issued a call for any information from local fishermen, boat operators, and residents along Grenada’s southern coast who could provide sightings or details about Waddell. According to a police bulletin, Waddell is described as 5 feet, 5 inches tall with short blond hair.

An extensive search operation including police officers, divers, and students from St. George’s University is ongoing, according to GBN.

Cailen Waddell, the missing woman’s husband, shared on Facebook that he was traveling to Grenada to support the search efforts. “The police have been wonderful,” he commented, acknowledging their communication and thorough investigation.

Waddell is characterized by her husband as “a loving, free-spirited person” with a talent for making friends easily.

Amanda Romano-Harmon, a family friend, provided further insights, revealing that Waddell’s traveling companion was occupied with an online course at their Airbnb while Waddell ventured outside in her swimsuit, enjoying the sights from a pool that overlooked the bay.

Upon completing the course, Waddell’s friend noticed her absence and discovered the towel on the pier. With no sign of Waddell and her phone left behind, several hours passed before her disappearance was reported.

The Grenada police have urged anyone with knowledge of Waddell’s location to contact South Saint George Police Station or their nearest police station for assistance.

The U.S. State Department responded to inquiries by ABC News, emphasizing the priority placed on American safety abroad. They acknowledged awareness of the missing case and mentioned assistance capabilities in filing reports and navigating local procedures, although further comments were withheld due to privacy concerns.

For additional details, Tobias Meyjes and Shakeema Edwards can be contacted at Newsweek.