COLUMBIA, S.C. — Columbia Police Search for Missing University of South Carolina Student Donaven Dempsey
COLUMBIA, S.C. — The University of South Carolina community, along with family, friends, and local authorities, is deeply concerned as Columbia Police search for 18-year-old Donaven Dempsey, a student who has been missing since his return to Columbia earlier this week. Donaven, who is a freshman at the university, has not been seen or heard from since he returned to the area following a visit to his hometown of Spartanburg, South Carolina, on Thursday, May 8, 2025.
The disappearance of Donaven has sparked a widespread search effort by the Columbia Police Department’s Special Victims Unit, which has been working tirelessly to gather information and track down any leads. As the search continues, loved ones are desperately hoping for answers, and the community is coming together to support his family during this troubling time.
Details of the Disappearance
According to Columbia Police, Donaven Dempsey was last seen after returning from a trip to Spartanburg, where he had visited his family. He was expected to be back in Columbia to continue his studies at the University of South Carolina, but since his return, there has been no contact with his loved ones, and no one has been able to reach him. This has raised significant concern, as it is unlike Donaven to go without communication, especially for such an extended period of time.
His family, who reported him missing, expressed deep worry over the fact that he hasn’t reached out to anyone since he made his return. This has prompted an urgent search by local authorities and the community, who are working together in hopes of locating Donaven and ensuring his safety.
Last Known Location and Appearance
At the time of his disappearance, Donaven was last seen wearing a white T-shirt, a black sweater with neon green inside, and blue jeans. These details have been shared with the public in the hopes of identifying any potential sightings or evidence of his whereabouts.
Columbia Police have been asking anyone who might have seen Donaven or has information about his movements after his return to come forward. His sudden disappearance, coupled with the lack of communication, has left his family and friends incredibly anxious, and authorities are treating the case with the utmost urgency.
Community and Law Enforcement’s Urgent Search Effort
As of now, police have not disclosed further information regarding any potential leads, but they have intensified their search efforts throughout the Columbia area. Investigators are combing through security footage from locations near his residence and other key areas in an attempt to gather any clues that might shed light on Donaven’s whereabouts. Additionally, law enforcement has been in contact with university officials to check any campus-related activities that Donaven may have been involved in or where he might have been headed after returning to Columbia.
In a statement, Columbia Police emphasized that they are doing everything they can to locate Donaven as quickly as possible. “Our primary concern right now is Donaven’s safety and well-being,” said Lieutenant Sarah Reynolds, a spokesperson for the Columbia Police Department. “We’re asking the community to assist in any way they can, and we urge anyone with information to contact us or Crime Stoppers immediately.”
Authorities are also coordinating with Crime Stoppers of South Carolina, offering a confidential tip line for those who may have any relevant information. The number for Crime Stoppers is 1-888-CRIME-SC, and tips can remain anonymous.
A Family’s Desperate Plea for Help
Donaven’s family is understandably distraught over his disappearance and is making a public plea for anyone who may have seen him or knows anything about his whereabouts to come forward. His parents and siblings have expressed their anguish over the situation and are calling on the Columbia community to help bring their loved one home safely.
“We just want Donaven to come home,” said Donnette Dempsey, Donaven’s mother, in a heartfelt interview. “This is not like him at all. We’ve always been in constant contact with him, and for him to disappear like this is unimaginable. We’re just asking anyone who knows anything to please let us know. We want him back.”
Donaven’s family has been in contact with Columbia police regularly and is hopeful that the efforts from law enforcement and the public will lead to his safe return.
A Bright Student with a Promising Future
Donaven Dempsey is a freshman at the University of South Carolina, where he is pursuing his studies with enthusiasm. According to university officials, Donaven has been a model student during his time at the school. He is described by those who know him as bright, friendly, and hardworking — a student who is focused on his future and a valuable member of the university community.
As a member of the University of South Carolina’s student body, Donaven has made a positive impression on his professors and fellow students alike. His peers recall him as someone who was always eager to participate in class discussions and was well-liked by everyone who interacted with him. His sudden disappearance has left many of his friends on campus shocked and worried about his well-being.
“He’s such a good guy,” said Carmen Stewart, a fellow student and close friend of Donaven. “We’ve all been trying to keep in touch with him, but no one’s heard from him in days. This is so unlike him, and it’s terrifying to think something might have happened. We just want him to be safe.”
How You Can Help
As the search for Donaven continues, Columbia Police are encouraging the public to stay vigilant and report any possible sightings or relevant information they may have. Local authorities are focusing their search efforts within the Columbia area, but they are not ruling out the possibility that Donaven could have traveled elsewhere. They are urging anyone who may have seen someone matching his description — wearing a white T-shirt, a black sweater with neon green, and blue jeans — to come forward.
Additionally, anyone who may have been in contact with Donaven in the days leading up to his disappearance is asked to reach out to investigators. Whether you may have seen him at a specific location, spoken to him, or have any other relevant details, your information could prove invaluable in helping to locate Donaven.
If you have any information about Donaven’s whereabouts, please contact the Columbia Police Department or Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC. Tips can be anonymous, and any assistance could make all the difference in locating Donaven and bringing him back home safely.
The Search Continues
The search for Donaven Dempsey remains ongoing, with law enforcement and the University of South Carolina community working together to ensure that he is found and returned to his family. For now, those who know Donaven are holding out hope that he will be located soon and that his safe return is imminent. His family, friends, and the broader community are united in their determination to find him and bring closure to this troubling situation.
“We just want him back,” said Donnette Dempsey, her voice filled with emotion. “Please help us bring Donaven home.”