Elizabeth Waddell vanished during vacation, prompting extensive search efforts
Category: Health
Elizabeth "Liz" Waddell, a 44-year-old mother from Cary, North Carolina, has been missing for over a week after vanishing from Grand Anse Beach in Grenada on July 22, 2026. Her husband, Cailen Waddell, does not believe foul play was involved in her disappearance, which has sparked a large-scale search involving local authorities and the U.S. Embassy.
Waddell was vacationing with a friend when she disappeared. The pair arrived in Grenada on July 11 after a flight from Miami and spent the first ten days of their trip on the western side of the island before relocating to the Grand Anse area on July 21. According to Cailen Waddell, his wife was last seen swimming in the ocean around 5:30 PM on the day she went missing.
The search for Waddell was initiated shortly after she was reported missing by her friend at approximately 5:15 PM on July 22. Surveillance footage captured Waddell walking toward a jetty at around 11:36 AM, and she was seen entering the water shortly thereafter. Eyewitness accounts confirmed that she was swimming in the area, but she has not been seen since.
During a press conference, Royal Grenada Police Force Commissioner Randy Connaught stated that multiple agencies, including the FBI, are involved in the search efforts. The police have received reports of Waddell swimming about 20 feet from the shore in water that was approximately five feet deep. Cailen Waddell described the swimming conditions as relatively safe, noting, "There are lots of rocks you can stop at if you need. The water is like a lake, not like ocean water we experience in North Carolina." He expressed hope that additional video evidence or sightings could provide clues to her whereabouts.
Waddell's husband has emphasized the importance of gathering any details about her actions after the last confirmed sighting. He stated, "The missing person investigation into her disappearance will continue, and we are hopeful to determine her actions between the time she was last seen on video and the time she was seen in the water around 5:30, as well as any additional sightings. No detail is too small." Meanwhile, he has taken to social media to thank those involved in the search and to encourage anyone with information to come forward.
Elizabeth Waddell is a physical therapist who runs her own practice, Art of Movement, from her home. She has a doctorate in physical therapy from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Friends and family describe her as an adventurous spirit who loves to travel and experience new cultures. Amanda Romano-Harmon, a family friend of 25 years, described Waddell as "a ray of sunshine" who enjoys meeting new people.
The search for Waddell has drawn the attention of local and international media, highlighting the risks associated with swimming in unfamiliar waters. Grenada, known for its beautiful beaches and warm climate, is a popular tourist destination, but accidents can occur. The Royal Grenada Police Force has stated that they are treating the case as a missing persons investigation and are committed to finding Waddell.
Authorities have urged anyone who has information about Waddell's disappearance to contact the local police. The U.S. State Department has also acknowledged the situation and is monitoring developments. As the search continues, Cailen Waddell has expressed gratitude for the support from the community and local authorities.
As the investigation progresses, the Royal Grenada Police Force plans to continue their extensive search efforts, which include land, water, and air searches. The police have indicated that they are working to recreate Waddell’s movements on the day she went missing. They are also hoping to identify any additional witnesses who may have seen her before she vanished.
Waddell's family remains hopeful for her safe return, and friends have organized support efforts, including a GoFundMe campaign to assist with search costs. Cailen Waddell has been active in the search, having traveled to Grenada to assist local authorities and participate in the investigation.
As of now, the community in Cary, North Carolina, is rallying around the Waddell family, offering prayers and support during this difficult time. Cailen Waddell has stated, "I am heartbroken that she is missing," underscoring the emotional toll this situation has taken on the family.
The search for Elizabeth Waddell continues, with hopes that new information will surface that could lead to her discovery. Authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to locate her, and they encourage anyone with information to reach out. The investigation is still very much active, with updates expected as the situation develops.
Anyone with information about Elizabeth Waddell's disappearance is urged to contact the South Saint George Police Station at 444-4454, or the Criminal Investigation Department at 440-3921. The community remains hopeful that Elizabeth will be found safe and sound.