Cozumel, Mexico – The search for Brad Solomon, a man from Charleston reported missing in Cozumel, Mexico, has expanded as authorities and volunteers intensify their efforts across the island. Coordinated by the Seguridad Ciudadana Cozumel, the search now includes land, air, and sea operations, reflecting growing concern for Solomon’s well-being.
Ground and Air Search Efforts Grow to Find Brad Solomon
On April 7th, the search party significantly increased to over 100 individuals, boosted by the arrival of Solomon’s family members. From 1 PM to 9 PM, they conducted an extensive search across the island, hoping to locate the missing man.
Around 6 PM on the same day, a potential sighting of Solomon was reported at a large grocery store on Cozumel. According to a Facebook post by Miller, Solomon reportedly fled when approached by the store owner. The family believes Solomon might be seeking hydration and shelter in local churches. They suspect that disorientation from being lost, possibly compounded by dementia, is causing him anxiety and compulsive walking behavior. In response, the family requested local residents to post signage about Solomon in churches across the island.
April 8th saw a further evolution of the search strategy, becoming a widespread effort involving tourists, local residents, and officials. Search teams swept the island in a grid pattern, utilizing both foot patrols and all-terrain vehicles. A tip line was established to gather information from the public; however, many reported sightings proved to be unsubstantiated, causing emotional distress for the search teams.
Search brigade in Cozumel, Mexico, looking for Brad Solomon
“No major updates. Many false leads today. It is very distressing for us to have hope and then be let down,” Miller shared on Facebook, highlighting the emotional rollercoaster of the search.
State Department Involved as Search Focus Shifts to Jungle Terrain
On April 9th, the U.S. State Department confirmed its awareness of Solomon’s disappearance. A spokesperson stated that consular officials are actively working with local Mexican authorities and maintaining close communication with Solomon’s family, offering assistance and support in the ongoing search.
By April 11th, Mexican authorities, including military personnel, redirected their search efforts towards the dense jungles of Cozumel. This shift in strategy, as reported by Miller on Facebook, comes eight days after Solomon was last seen, indicating a challenging and evolving search operation in the demanding terrain of the island’s interior.
