Paula Merchant, a Georgia State University graduate, moved to her parent's home 12/23/98. She planned to enter the Anthropology Department's Masters Program at the University of South Carolina. She was last seen leaving her parent's home on 1/3/99 at 6:30 p.m. to attend a meeting on LeGrand Road. She never made it to the meeting. Paula has always called at least once a week. She hasn't called… Her car, a tan 1989 Nissan Sentra, was found burning on Commerce Drive later that night. You are out there… You know about Paula's car. You can help find Paula.
Age at time of disappearance: 25
White Female, Light Complexion
Hair: Medium Blonde (often in ponytails or briads); Eyes: Brown
Height: 5'6 1/2"; Weight: 120lbs
Identifying marks: Distinct Dimples
Clothing: Last observed wearing grey pants, light green sweater, ¾ navy
coat, black shoes, black knit hat, and carrying a dark brown medium size
shoulder purse.
MISSING: JANUARY 3RD, 1999 FROM COLUMBIA, S. CAROLINA
Persons with information concerning this case are asked to call:
Crime Stoppers at 1-888-559-8477
Forest Acres Police at 1-803-782-9444
Sled at 1-803-737-9000
National Center for Missing Adults at 1-800-690-3463
$25,000 REWARD Missing Person "At Risk"
(This family oriented young woman is considered "At Risk" by her family and law enforcement)
Our family is on a journey that will never end until we find Paula. We've had many calls, visits, letters, and cards from our friends and some we have yet to meet. They are praying with us for Paula's safe return. This adds to our faith and hope that good things happen when we join together. Thank you and may God bless you and keep you safe.
Faith, Hope and Love,
The Merchant Family
Heavenly Father,
We pray for the safe return
Of our daughter, sister to our
only son, our friend and your child.
Protect her and keep her
From all harm.
Amen.