Lexington County Teen Missing: Community Joins Search Efforts
Lexington County, SC – A local family’s heartache has led to a widespread call for assistance as 14-year-old James Shealy has been reported missing since the early morning hours of September 24. James was last seen at around 6 a.m. off of Wise Ferry Rd. and was wearing a dark grey hoodie, shorts, and tennis shoes.
The Shealy family, including James’s parents, Beth Curlee Shealy and her husband, Chan Shealy, are understandably worried. James has a lean build, standing at six feet tall and weighing around 135 pounds. As the youngest child in the family, his absence has created a void that the family—and the community—struggles to fill.
A Community Mobilizes
As the search intensifies, James’s aunt, Emily Bebbington, took to Facebook to share updates and rally community support. In her heartfelt post, she wrote, “The police are trying everything, including interviewing neighbors and friends, going through all of his electronics, a drone, and the dogs that lost his scent. So far, nothing has been successful.” With no cell phone in his possession, James hasn’t been able to reach out for help or let anyone know where he might be.
The efforts to locate James have ramped up significantly, with police deploying various resources. Local authorities have been engaging neighbors and searching through his belongings, but as of now, there have been no leads.
Reach Out for Help
Community members are urged to keep a lookout. If you have any information on James’s whereabouts, you are strongly encouraged to notify law enforcement by calling 911 immediately. Alternatively, you can contact the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department at 803-785-8230. This is particularly important to ensure that the closest and most available officers are dispatched as quickly as possible.
The situation in Lexington County is heightening as the family and community hold out hope for James’s safe return. He is cherished by his family, friends, and peers, and he holds a special place in the hearts of those who know him. Every moment counts, and every bit of information can lead to a breakthrough.
Weather Conditions May Affect Search
To add to the challenges, Lexington County is expecting some severe weather today. According to the latest forecasts, rain is likely all day with a high of 76°F. Winds will be blowing from the southeast at speeds of 5 to 10 mph, transitioning to much stronger winds from the east-southeast as the evening progresses, with gusts ranging between 25 to 35 mph. Thunderstorms are expected to hit by morning, and there’s a **100% chance of rain**, accumulating between 1 to 2 inches. This weather may present additional hurdles for search teams, making visibility and terrain conditions more complicated.
As rain begins to fall, the community remains steadfast in their support for the Shealy family. Grabbing umbrellas, donning raincoats, and braving the wind, neighbors are prepared to assist in the search for James. The hope is that together, through determination and communal effort, James will be found safe and sound.
As we share this story, let us remember that the strength of a community comes into play during challenging times. In Lexington County, people are coming together, hoping for a positive outcome as the search for James continues. Keep your eyes and ears open—your help could make all the difference!
