Search for Missing Broadway Dancer Expands Beyond South Carolina
The family of Zelig Williams, a 28-year-old dancer known for his roles in “Hamilton” and “MJ The Musical”, is extending their search efforts after his unexplained disappearance earlier this month. Authorities found his car near a hiking trailhead located more than 20 miles from his home in Columbia, South Carolina on October 3, the last day he was seen.
When and Where Did He Go Missing?
According to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, Williams was last seen at his residence on October 3. His family filed a missing persons report the following day after losing contact with him. The vehicle was located at a hiking trailhead near Congaree National Park, a popular area for outdoor activities such as canoeing and hiking, leading them to believe he may have ventured into the trails.
Who is Leading the Search?
Williams’ family, including his mother Kathy Williams and cousin Mieoki Corbett-Jacobs, have taken an active role in searching for him. They have already conducted multiple foot searches of the area surrounding the trailhead and are now expanding their efforts to include the adjacent Palmetto Trail, which leads to several major roads. “We’ve searched that area ourselves on foot more than once, and now we’re looking to expand our search,” said Corbett-Jacobs.
Why Do They Believe He is in Danger?
The family expresses deep concern for Williams’ well-being, especially considering the circumstances surrounding his disappearance. Corbett-Jacobs highlighted suspicious elements, stating, “He didn’t wander off. This is definitely a missing persons case with suspected foul play.” The family believes that when Williams went missing, he had stopped taking his prescribed medications, which have been essential for his mental health.
What Measures are Authorities Taking?
Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott reported that authorities are utilizing all available technology and manpower to locate Williams. They are encouraging the public to assist by reporting any sightings or information that could lead to his discovery. Private investigators hired by the family are also actively pursuing leads as they come in. Recently, a series of photos were sent to them that initially seemed like potential sightings, but were confirmed not to be Williams.
The Emotional Toll on the Family
Kathy Williams has expressed her heart-wrenching feelings regarding her son’s disappearance, stating he is her last surviving child after losing both daughters in a tragic car accident in 2004. “He told me when he danced, he feels his sisters with him. And he is an amazing dancer, and that’s what he loved doing,” she shared.
A Call for Community Support
The family is calling upon the community for assistance during this troubling time. Corbett-Jacobs conveyed a message of hope for Williams, urging him to “hold on, hold on to God, hold on to your faith and find your way home. We will not stop looking for you until we bring you home.”
Conclusion
The search for Zelig Williams continues, with his family determined to find him and bring him home. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is urged to reach out to local authorities to assist in this critical situation.
