Irmo, South Carolina, October 11, 2025
News Summary
The Richland County Sheriff’s Department is searching for 54-year-old Ernest Irby, last seen in the Aderley Oak Loop area of Irmo. Investigators are concerned for his safety and urge anyone with information to contact local authorities. In a related matter, 16-year-old Taja Fletcher has been safely located. The community also supports the ongoing search for Broadway star Zelig Williams, missing since October 3rd.
Irmo, South Carolina – The Richland County Sheriff’s Department (RCSD) is actively seeking public assistance in locating a missing 54-year-old man named Ernest Irby. Family members reported Irby missing after he was last seen at approximately 7:15 a.m. on Tuesday, October 8, 2025. The last known location of Irby was in the Aderley Oak Loop area of Irmo, South Carolina. Investigators are expressing concern for his safety, noting that it is “out of character” for him to lose contact with family and friends.
Ernest Irby may be driving a white-colored 2012 Nissan Altima. He is described as 5’5″ tall, with low-cut black hair and brown eyes. Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding Irby’s whereabouts to contact local law enforcement by calling 911 or the RCSD at (803) 576-3000.
In an unrelated case, authorities reported that Taja Fletcher, a 16-year-old girl who had also been missing, was safely located by the Irmo Police Department around 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday. Fletcher was last seen leaving her home at approximately 7:25 a.m. on the same day she was reported missing, Monday. While details about Taja’s situation remain unclear, there is currently no suspicion of foul play nor has she been classified as a runaway.
The search for another missing individual, Broadway star Zelig Williams, continues as community members come together to support his family. Zelig Williams has been missing since October 3rd, with his vehicle discovered at Congaree National Park. The community has rallied around his family, organizing healing gatherings and fundraising efforts for the continued search operations to locate him.
The ongoing efforts by law enforcement and community members highlight the importance of public vigilance in locating missing persons. Authorities encourage anyone who has information regarding Irby or any of the ongoing missing persons cases to come forward and assist in these critical searches.
Background on Missing Person Cases
The cases of missing individuals can cause significant emotional distress for families and communities. In both cases of Ernest Irby and Taja Fletcher, the surge of public concern reflects a broader societal commitment to ensuring the safety of all individuals. In recent years, local and national organizations have established initiatives to assist families who are affected by such distressing situations.
The case of Zelig Williams serves as a reminder of the many individuals who go missing each year and the community efforts needed to bring them home. Communities often unite to provide support and resources, which is vital in these challenging circumstances.
Contact Information
- To report information on Ernest Irby: Call 911 or RCSD at (803) 576-3000.
FAQ
Who is Ernest Irby?
Ernest Irby is a 54-year-old man reported missing by his family after last being seen at approximately 7:15 a.m. on Tuesday, October 8, 2025, in the Aderley Oak Loop area of Irmo, South Carolina.
How can I help find Ernest Irby?
Anyone with information regarding Irby’s whereabouts is encouraged to call 911 or RCSD at (803) 576-3000.
Was Taja Fletcher found?
Yes, Taja Fletcher, a 16-year-old girl who was reported missing, was located safe by the Irmo Police Department around 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday.
Who is Zelig Williams?
Zelig Williams is a Broadway star who has been missing since October 3rd, with his car discovered at Congaree National Park.
Key Features of Missing Persons Cases
| Feature | Ernest Irby | Taja Fletcher | Zelig Williams |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age | 54 | 16 | N/A |
| Date Last Seen | October 8, 2025 | October 8, 2025 | October 3, 2025 |
| Last Known Location | Aderley Oak Loop, Irmo, SC | Irmo, SC | Congaree National Park |
| Current Status | Missing | Located Safe | Missing |
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: Family Reports Man Missing in Richland County
- The State: Missing Persons Reports
- ABC News 4: Family of Missing Man Zelig Williams
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Missing Persons
- WIS TV: Zelig Williams Missing Update
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
