The search for Amy Hillyard, a beloved coffee shop owner and mother of two, has intensified following her disappearance from her home in Oakland, California, on March 25. The 52-year-old was last seen around 2 p.m. near Radnor Road, just a short distance from Lake Merritt, as confirmed by local law enforcement.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Amy-Hillyard-033026-bccdbe461d7747ae86b564577a1d1ea2.jpg)
Hillyard, described as a white woman with blonde hair and hazel eyes, stands at 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighs approximately 120 pounds. At the time of her disappearance, she was wearing a tan top and pants. Authorities have indicated that Hillyard is considered “at risk” due to undisclosed medical conditions, heightening concerns for her wellbeing.
As news of her absence spread, a palpable sense of community support emerged. Friend and fellow business owner, Selena Khaira, spoke candidly about Hillyard’s character. “She’s the kind of person that collects people, that brings others together when they’re facing problems,” Khaira remarked. She emphasised the significance of community solidarity, stating, “It’s so important for us to come together and help her family in a similar way that they’ve always helped us.”
In the days following Hillyard’s disappearance, more than 200 volunteers mobilised to scour the neighbourhood for clues, engaging residents in discussions and seeking potential doorbell camera footage. The combined efforts reflect both concern for Hillyard and recognition of her contributions to the local community, including her role as co-owner of Farley’s coffee shops in both Oakland and San Francisco.
On March 29, a candlelight vigil took place near Lake Merritt, drawing hundreds of supporters who gathered to express their hope for Hillyard’s safe return. Family friend Tom Green attended the event, articulating the collective longing for Hillyard’s wellbeing. “What we’re hoping for tonight is to generate as much attention on the fact that she’s missing and how loved she is,” he said, reinforcing the hope that widespread awareness might lead to her return.
Green further reflected on Hillyard’s community spirit, remembering her as someone who was always ready to lend a hand and engage with others in times of need. “It seems crazy that she’s not here tonight with us,” he added, highlighting the strong emotional bonds that she fostered within the community.
The Oakland Police Department continues to investigate Hillyard’s case and has confirmed that she remains missing as of March 30. A spokesperson issued a heartfelt message, expressing sympathy for Hillyard’s family and friends during this challenging period. Farley’s East also shared a statement on social media, praising Hillyard’s active involvement in the community over the past two decades and urging anyone with information to come forward.
Local authorities are appealing for information, asking anyone who may have seen Hillyard or has relevant details regarding her disappearance to contact the Oakland Police Department’s Missing Persons Unit at (510) 238-3641. The resolve within the Oakland community remains strong as friends, family, and volunteers alike continue to rally together, driven by the hope of bringing Amy Hillyard home.