Search Continues for Missing American Woman in Grenada

The search is ongoing for Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Waddell, a 44-year-old from North Carolina, who vanished during a vacation in Grenada. She was last seen near Grand Anse Beach in St. George’s, according to the Royal Grenada Police Force. A family friend noted that Waddell seemed to have left for a swim, leaving a towel on the pier.

Waddell was visiting the Caribbean island with a friend and staying at the Hideaway Waterfront Apartments in the Grand Anse area, based on reports from Grenada Broadcasting Network (GBN). Authorities have reached out to fishermen, boat operators, and local residents on the island’s southern coast seeking leads on her whereabouts. Waddell is described as 5 feet, 5 inches tall with short blond hair.

An extensive search involving police officers, divers, and students from St. George’s University is in progress, according to GBN. Newsweek contacted Waddell’s husband, Cailen Waddell, the Grenada police, and the U.S. State Department for comments.

Family Pleads for Information

On Friday, Cailen Waddell wrote on Facebook about traveling to Grenada to aid in the search for his wife. He commended the police for their efforts and communication during the investigation, indicating that authorities are doing all they can to locate her. He described Liz as ‘a loving, free-spirited person’ who easily made friends.

Towel Found on Pier

According to family friend Amanda Romano-Harmon, Waddell’s companion was engaged in an online course at their Airbnb when Waddell set out for a swim. Waddell’s friend later noticed her towel abandoned on the pier and suspected she might have gone for a swim. After Waddell did not return for several hours without her phone, her friend reported her missing.

Grenada police urge anyone with information about Waddell’s location to contact the South Saint George Police Station or the nearest station. The U.S. State Department expressed that the safety of Americans abroad is a top priority, mentioning that they are aware of the reports and can aid families with missing persons procedures.