The search for a missing California woman continues as her family and community face prolonged anguish following her disappearance earlier this year. Amy Hillyard, a mother and business owner, was last seen on 25 March 2023, in Oakland, California. As the months pass, the impact of her absence grows ever larger, with her husband Chris Hillyard and their two daughters particularly affected.
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On what would have been Amy’s 53rd birthday, Chris shared the heartbreak felt by the family in her absence. “Our family is really suffering, and we miss her dearly,” he stated, emphasising the poignant realisation that their family celebrations have forever changed. “We’re constantly thinking about her. It’ll be another hard milestone in this case to pass without her here,” he added, illustrating the relentless emotional toll of the situation.
The couple, who had been married for over two decades, co-owned Farley’s, a well-regarded coffee shop in both San Francisco and Oakland, initially founded by Chris’s father. While Chris currently serves as the general manager, Amy was known as the creative director. In addition to her role at the café, Amy was actively involved in her community, running a consulting business, leading women’s groups, and presiding as the president of a local choir board. “Ultimately, she’s just super compassionate and is such a loving person,” reflected Chris on his wife’s character and contributions.
Prior to her going missing, family members revealed that Amy was seeking help for depression and anxiety, attending therapy sessions and following professional advice. Her disappearance raised concerns, with local authorities citing that she was “at risk due to medical conditions.” The circumstances surrounding her last known location remain profoundly unsettling for Chris and their daughters, aged 19 and 20.
After Amy vanished from the 500 block of Radnor Road in Oakland, a large-scale search effort was initiated involving hundreds of community volunteers. Chris reported the outpouring of support as a source of comfort amidst the heartache. “She’s touched so many people in so many different ways, and those from all those different groups have really come together to help with the search efforts for sure,” he noted.
In a bid to accelerate the search, a GoFundMe campaign has garnered nearly £60,000, aimed partly at employing private investigators. Furthermore, a reward of £25,000 is being offered for any information leading to Amy’s safe return. Despite ongoing investigations, including reviewing surveillance footage, there have yet to be new leads. However, Chris stated that the materials are useful as they help “eliminate possibilities.”
Even with the passage of time, Chris remains unwavering in his commitment to finding Amy. “It never stops,” he confessed, acknowledging that thoughts of her are a constant presence in his life, even during work. For their daughters, the struggle remains pronounced as they learn to cope with the reality of their “very loving mother” being missing. “Her absence is huge. So yeah, it’s been really difficult for them,” Chris admitted.
As the Hillyard family’s resolve strengthens, they call for continued public attention to the incident, believing that fresh insights into Amy’s whereabouts could arise from heightened awareness. “We just need people to be aware, be on the lookout, and keep sharing the story,” Chris implored. He added, “Someone somewhere may have seen something or may see her out there, and that could be the big break in the case.”
The Oakland Police Department has encouraged anyone with information on Amy Hillyard’s status to come forward by contacting them at 510-238-3641. In addition, if anyone is grappling with mental health challenges or emotional distress, support is available through the 988 Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org, available for assistance around the clock.
As the community rallies around the Hillyard family during this difficult time, the search continues, fuelled by hope and the unwavering desire to bring Amy home.