Executive Summary: Urgent Investigation Underway in the Caribbean
An international search effort continues across the Caribbean island nation of Grenada following the disappearance of Elizabeth “Liz” Waddell, a 44-year-old physical therapist and mother from Cary, North Carolina.
Waddell disappeared on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, while staying at a beach resort near the capital city of St. George’s. The Royal Grenada Police Force, operating alongside federal representatives from the U.S. State Department and the FBI, has launched a multi-agency missing person investigation following the discovery of crucial surveillance camera footage.
Timeline Matrix: Key Moments Surrounding Waddell’s Disappearance
| Time (July 22, 2026) | Observed Activity via CCTV & Police Logs | Operational & Investigation Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 11:30 AM | Waddell observed walking toward a jetty on Grand Anse Beach | Establishes last confirmed location on land |
| 11:51 AM | CCTV captures Waddell stepping into the ocean water | Confirms active entry into open water |
| 12:04 PM | Camera records Waddell swimming beneath a beach pier | Last known visual confirmation of Waddell in motion |
| 12:46 PM | Travel companion walks toward the pier; later returns alone | Companion searches local area before contacting authorities |
| 5:50 PM | Formal missing person report filed at South St. George Police Station | Triggers official police search protocols |
Strategic Developments in the Missing Person Investigation
- Surveillance Footage Examination: Police confirmed that resort CCTV cameras captured Waddell entering the water and swimming near a jetty. However, no footage shows her returning to shore, prompting deep-water search operations by local maritime units. Hindustan Times+ 1
- Cooperation with U.S. Federal Authorities: The Royal Grenada Police Force confirmed active coordination with the FBI regional office to analyze digital surveillance recordings and eyewitness reports. Hindustan Times
- Appeals to Maritime & Coastal Operators: Authorities have urged local fishermen, commercial boat captains, and coastal residents along Grenada’s southern shore to remain vigilant and report any sightings. Hindustan Times
- Family Appeals for Public Assistance: Waddell’s husband, Cailen Waddell, arrived on the island to assist search teams, while family representatives released select video clips to encourage eyewitnesses to step forward. Hindustan Times
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Where did Elizabeth Waddell go missing? Elizabeth Waddell was last seen swimming off Grand Anse Beach in St. George’s, the capital of Grenada, on July 22, 2026.
Q2: What agencies are involved in the search for Elizabeth Waddell? The search is led by the Royal Grenada Police Force, with assistance from the U.S. State Department, the FBI, and local maritime authorities.