Each year, many individuals go missing in South Carolina. Thankfully, most of them are located fairly quickly. Yet, as of October 2024, around 300 cases remain unresolved in the state, according to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs).
The statistics show some concerning patterns. More men go missing than women, and there is an alarming overrepresentation of Black individuals in these cases. Although Black residents make up about 24% of South Carolina’s population, they represent approximately 45% of missing persons cases. Children under 12, teenagers, and the elderly are particularly at risk, with mental health issues and lifestyle factors complicating search efforts.
Recently, I had a chance to speak with Jenn Wood, who works as a research director, and Troy Styles from Blunt Force Media. They have valuable experience in handling missing persons cases. Blunt Force Media partners with law enforcement and families to assist in the search for missing individuals. They act as a link between the media and police, helping to manage communication so that law enforcement can concentrate on the investigation.
Some of the services they offer include organizing public announcements, setting up hotlines, and coordinating volunteer search efforts.
Wood mentioned that one of the media’s challenges is to provide a well-rounded view of the missing person to capture the public’s interest and encourage them to help. Unfortunately, a lot of information usually comes through missing person flyers, which often only contain basic details and a few outdated photos.
“I want to know who these people really are,” Wood emphasized. “It’s crucial to bring their stories to life.”
For families experiencing the nightmare of a loved one going missing, it’s vital to know how to respond. Styles pointed out that even though law enforcement typically won’t intervene until 24 hours have passed—especially for adults—families should begin their own search efforts right away.
Time is crucial in the initial hours, as these periods are when leads are most fresh.
Styles recommends that families choose a spokesperson—someone who can communicate effectively with the media—to ensure clear messaging. Creating a command center at home can also help manage incoming information and organize volunteer activities.
Even though it’s hard to think about a loved one going missing, Styles offers several helpful tips for being prepared. Keeping recent photos and videos of family members is key.
Another helpful idea is to create a scent jar. By keeping a personal item with the individual’s scent, like a piece of clothing, in a sealed container, search dogs can follow an unhindered scent trail.
While it’s impossible to entirely prepare for such a distressing situation, having a plan can significantly aid in the search for a missing loved one.
