The partner of a missing American Airlines flight attendant who vanished during a layover in Colombia has expressed being "shattered" by the ongoing ordeal, as authorities confirm they have identified suspects potentially linked to his disappearance.
Disappearance in Medellín
Eric Fernando Gutiérrez Molina, a 32-year-old flight attendant based in Dallas–Fort Worth, was last seen in Medellín, Colombia, after arriving on a flight from Miami for an overnight stop. He was scheduled to return to the United States the following day but never reported for duty, prompting immediate concern from colleagues and family members.
Unusual Communication Cut-Off
According to friends and investigators, Gutiérrez Molina went out on Saturday night in the popular El Poblado nightlife district with coworkers. At a club, he met two men, and the group decided to continue socializing elsewhere. He later sent a message sharing his location at an Airbnb, but all communication ceased shortly after, which loved ones describe as highly unusual behavior for him.
"I want to believe that he's alive, and I want to continue believing that he's alive, but throughout each day you wake up not knowing anything, and it makes the days go by longer and slower," Ernesto Carranza, Gutiérrez Molina's longtime partner, told CBS News on Thursday.
Sharom Gil, Gutiérrez Molina’s best friend, added, "I'm missing a part of me ... He's the most joyful person to ever to be around. We're so lost right now."
Suspected Drugging and Robbery
One of Gutiérrez Molina’s coworkers was later found disoriented and required medical attention. Family members and friends now fear Gutiérrez may have been drugged, possibly with scopolamine, commonly known as "devil's breath." This substance is notorious for causing confusion, memory loss, impaired judgment, and even unconsciousness.
Authorities Identify Suspects
Colombian authorities have identified multiple suspects who may be connected not only to Gutiérrez’s disappearance but also to similar robberies involving the drug, as reported by CBS. The investigation is active, with local law enforcement and international agencies working to trace phone data, surveillance footage, and witness accounts.
International Response and Travel Advisory
Missing persons reports have been filed in both the United States and Colombia, and the U.S. Embassy has been notified. American Airlines stated it is working closely with authorities and supporting the flight attendant’s family as the investigation continues.
The disappearance occurs against the backdrop of a U.S. State Department travel advisory for Colombia, which urges Americans to "reconsider travel" due to widespread violent crime concerns.
Anyone with information on Gutiérrez Molina’s whereabouts is asked to contact the police.
