Authorities in the Bahamas are currently conducting a search for a missing Chicago woman who had recently traveled to Paradise Island to participate in a yoga retreat, as reported by the local police and her family. Taylor Casey, 41, was last seen at the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat Bahamas on Wednesday, according to a statement released by her family on Monday. Concerns grew further after the Royal Bahamas Police Force distributed a missing person’s flier seeking information on her whereabouts just two days later.
Casey’s family expressed deep worry for her safety and well-being, highlighting her eagerness to share her yoga retreat experience upon her return as an indicator that something may have gone wrong. They emphasized that Casey, described as a vibrant and loving individual who has been practicing yoga for 15 years, would not voluntarily disappear without a trace. In an effort to coordinate with local authorities, Casey’s mother, Colette Seymore, was reported to be traveling to the Bahamas.
Described as a Black American with light skin and a thin build, standing at 5 feet 10 inches with natural hair that is often covered, Casey’s disappearance has left her family desperate for any information about her whereabouts. Despite efforts to reach out to the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat Bahamas for comment, the organization did not immediately respond. Known for its international presence, Sivananda Yoga maintains retreat centers in various locations globally, such as India, France, Austria, New York state, and California.
The Paradise Island yoga retreat, where Casey was last seen, has been characterized as “otherworldly” by lifestyle publications, offering a serene environment surrounded by lush tropical gardens and pristine white-sand beaches. However, recent security concerns in Nassau, including incidents of violence and crime, prompted the U.S. State Department to raise its travel advisory level for the Bahamas to Level 2, advising American travelers to exercise caution and maintain a low profile.
As the search continues for Taylor Casey, her family, friends, and community members remain hopeful that someone will come forward with crucial information that could help locate her. The situation underscores the importance of vigilance and safety measures when traveling abroad, especially in areas where security risks may be elevated.