A search is underway for an American mother who vanished while swimming at a popular tourist spot in Grenada. Elizabeth Waddell, 44, went missing from Grand Anse in St George on Wednesday.
Disappearance from Grand Anse
Waddell was staying with a friend at Grand Anse, a well-frequented tourist destination. She reportedly set out for a swim but failed to return. After several hours, her companion grew concerned, particularly as Waddell had left without her mobile phone.
Long-standing friend Amanda Romano-Harmon told WRAL that Waddell's companion had been studying when she glanced up and discovered the mother was no longer visible in the water.
"She had her swimsuit on, and she went outside their Airbnb," Amanda explained. "They had a pool that overlooked the bay. Liz was set up out there just sightseeing from the pool, and her friend was taking her online course. When she got through with her course, she looked up and she didn't see Liz outside, so she went outside to walk around and see where she went, and she saw her towel down on the pier. So the only thing we can think is maybe she went for a swim."
Husband's plea
A missing persons report has been filed. Waddell's husband, Cailen, issued an urgent appeal for information. "Facebook Friends. My wife Liz is missing in Grenada," he posted on 24 July. "If any of you have connections to the island – can you please share the following with your contacts there? Liz went missing in the afternoon on Wednesday. I am on my way there now to help search. I expect nothing less than Liz's safe return – so please send your love, light, thoughts, and prayers our way."
Cailen and his daughter arrived in Grenada on Friday to assist search efforts. Speaking to WRAL News, he said: "The police have been wonderful. The investigation is ongoing. [The police] have been incredibly communicative and have done everything it seems like they could be doing to help find her."
Search efforts
Amanda, a close friend of the couple for 25 years, said Cailen and his daughter have separated to cover more ground. The Royal Grenada Police Force are liaising with fishermen, boat operators and residents along the southern coastline as they continue efforts to locate Elizabeth safely.
