News Summary
The Columbia, South Carolina community grows increasingly concerned as the search intensifies for two missing individuals: 24-year-old Kiara Ellison and 14-year-old Montrell Bowers-Sanders. With community and authorities appealing for information, all hope remains for their safe return. Kiara, last seen on March 29, and Montrell, missing since March 17, are believed to be in need of medical assistance. As investigations continue, the public is urged to stay vigilant and cooperate in these ongoing efforts.
Search Intensifies for Missing Individuals in Columbia, SC
The streets of Columbia, South Carolina, are filled with concern and worry as the search continues for two missing individuals: 24-year-old Kiara Ellison and 14-year-old Montrell Bowers-Sanders. Community members, as well as local authorities, are urging anyone with information to come forward and help bring these missing people home.
Kiara Ellison Goes Missing
Kiara Ellison was last seen on the evening of March 29, off of Fairlamb Avenue in the Woodfield community. Described as a Black female with long black braids and brown eyes, she was wearing a grey hoodie and blue jeans when she disappeared. It’s important to note that Kiara requires medical assistance and is believed to be in danger. This has sparked a sense of urgency in the community as everyone rallies together in hope of finding her safe and sound.
The Richland County Sheriff’s Department has made an appeal for help. They are encouraging anyone who may have seen Kiara or has any information regarding her whereabouts to contact them at 803-576-3000 or call 911. No piece of information is too small, and every bit of help can make a difference.
Montrell Bowers-Sanders Missing Since March 17
In addition to Kiara, Montrell Bowers-Sanders, a 14-year-old boy, has been missing since March 17. He was reported missing by the Richland County Sheriff’s Department on March 20. Montrell was last seen in the 7300 block of Parkview Drive, which is near Exit 73 on Interstate 20, where it intersects with S.C. 277.
While it’s not yet clear if Montrell is considered a runaway or if he was with someone when last seen, officials do not suspect foul play in his disappearance. Like Kiara, Montrell also has medical issues that require attention. He was dressed in blue jeans, a multicolored shirt, and a blue fleece at the time he went missing. His family and friends are deeply worried and are hoping for quick news of his safe return.
The sheriff’s department is asking that anyone with possible leads on Montrell’s location to also get in touch at 803-576-3000 or reach out to CrimeStoppers at 888-CRIME-SC.
A Wider Concern: Other Missing Juveniles
The concern for missing individuals doesn’t stop with Kiara and Montrell. The Columbia Police Department recently released a list of several juvenile runaway investigations that have been ongoing since early 2024. Some of these cases include:
- London Moss, 14, missing since January 19
- Chase Eskeets, 16, missing since January 18
- Knaria Thompson, age unknown, missing since January
- Christopher Charley, age unknown, missing since January 1
- Chloe Corley, 16, missing since November 21, 2024
Each of these young individuals has their own unique descriptions, such as height, weight, hair color, and what they were wearing when they disappeared. All of their names have been entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database, as authorities work tirelessly to locate them.
Community Engagement is Key
The police urge the public’s assistance, underscoring that community cooperation is essential in locating these missing individuals. As Columbia unites in this time of need, local residents are reminded that sharing information and staying vigilant can play a crucial role in helping bring these individuals back home safely.
Every bit of information could be vital, and if you see something, don’t hesitate to speak up. Together, we can make a difference in the search for Kiara, Montrell, and all those still missing in our community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Columbia Community Rallying to Find Missing Woman Kiara Ellison
Columbia Police Seek Help to Find Missing Men
Columbia Police Intensify Search for Missing Woman Janica Jackson-Jones
Columbia Police Locate Missing Man, Provide Family Relief
Murder Suspect Captured in South Carolina After Dramatic Escape Attempt
Columbia Police Search for Missing 32-Year-Old Man, Arturo Rodriguez
Additional Resources
- The State: Missing Individuals in Columbia
- WIS TV: Columbia Police Release List of Missing Runaways
- WLTX: Missing Endangered Man Sought by Columbia Police
- ABC Columbia: Help Identify Man Found Dead on I-77
- MSN: Search for Missing South Carolina Man
- Wikipedia: Missing Person
- Google Search: Missing Persons Awareness
- Google Scholar: Missing Persons Investigations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Missing Person
- Google News: Missing Persons South Carolina
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.
