Physical Therapist Elizabeth Waddell Vanishes on Grenada Vacation
An intensive search is underway in Grenada for Elizabeth “Liz” Waddell, a 44-year-old physical therapist from North Carolina, who disappeared during her Caribbean getaway. Waddell was last seen on Wednesday at Grand Anse Beach in St. George’s, the area where she was staying. Her family, friends, and colleagues are desperately appealing for any information that could lead to her safe return.
Disappearance Details Emerge
According to the Royal Grenada Police Force, Waddell, a wife and mother from the Raleigh area, was last observed at the popular Grand Anse Beach. Authorities have described her as 5 feet 5 inches tall with short blonde hair, though a photograph released during the appeal showed her with pink hair, underscoring the urgency of the search. Waddell is recognized as the founder of Art of Movement Physical Therapy and holds a doctorate in physical therapy from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
A close friend, who has known Waddell and her husband for over two decades, shared details of the events leading up to her disappearance. Waddell had traveled to Grenada for a vacation with this friend. The friend recounted that she remained at their Airbnb accommodation to complete an online course, while Waddell went outside, seemingly for a swim or to enjoy the view from the pool area overlooking the bay. “She had her swimsuit on, and she went outside their Airbnb,” the friend stated. “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.”
After several hours passed without any sign of Waddell, and knowing she did not have her phone with her, the friend grew increasingly concerned. This led to the filing of a missing-persons report.
Husband Joins the Search Effort
Waddell’s husband, Cailen, was reportedly at work when he received the distressing news of his wife’s vanishing. He has since traveled to Grenada to join the search operations and has implored anyone with connections to the island to share any information that might aid in locating her. Speaking to local Grenada media outlets, he described his wife as a “loving, free-spirited person” who easily connected with others. “My wife is a loving, free-spirited person. She could make friends with anyone. She often did,” he told the Grenada Broadcasting Network (GBN).
Extensive Search Underway
The Royal Grenada Police Force has mobilized an extensive search operation. This effort includes the participation of police officers, divers, and students from St. George’s University. Authorities are specifically appealing to fishermen, boat operators, and residents along Grenada’s southern coastline for any sightings or information that could assist in the search.
The U.S. State Department has confirmed awareness of the reports concerning a missing American citizen in Grenada. A spokesperson emphasized that the safety and security of U.S. citizens abroad remain a top priority. While privacy considerations prevent the release of further details, the department stated its readiness to assist Waddell’s family and friends with filing missing persons reports and navigating local procedures.
Community Rallies for Safe Return
The news has deeply affected Waddell’s professional community. Aradia Fitness, where Waddell also works as a fitness instructor, expressed their dismay on social media, stating that the community is praying for her safe return. The organization described the news as “disheartening.”
Anyone who may have information regarding Elizabeth Waddell’s whereabouts is urged to contact the South Saint George Police Station at 444-4454, the Criminal Investigation Department at 440-3921, the police emergency line at 911, or the nearest police station.
