Missing Teen
Missing person in South Carolina. A college student vanished without a trace, and now his family and community are desperate for answers. Eighteen-year-old Donaven Dempsey, a student at the University of South Carolina, has not been heard from since May 7, 2025. He had just returned to Columbia from his hometown of Spartanburg, but shortly after arriving, he disappeared.
Donaven Dempsey: Disappearance
Donaven left Spartanburg on the afternoon of May 7. He was heading back to Columbia to resume classes. According to authorities, an Uber dropped him off at Columbia Hall — his dorm — at 6:18 PM. Surveillance footage confirmed the drop-off, but nothing has been seen or heard since.
Before reaching campus, Donaven made a stop at McDonald’s on Gervais Street, using his card there. That transaction was his last confirmed activity. After that, everything went silent.
Description and Clothing Details
On the day he vanished, Donaven wore black pants, a gray hoodie with neon green inner lining, a white shirt, and black-and-white Air Force One high-tops. Photos of him in this exact outfit were shared widely by police and family.
He is described as African American, 18 years old, around 5'10", and weighs approximately 160 pounds. His appearance is familiar to many on campus, yet no new leads have surfaced.
Family Pleads for Help
Donaven's loved ones are terrified. They’ve tried to reach him countless times. Texts and calls go unanswered. His phone is either off or untraceable.
His mother said, “Donaven always checks in. Always. For him to vanish like this? It’s a nightmare we can’t wake up from.”
Donaven’s disappearance is deeply out of character. He’s dependable, thoughtful, and very close to his family. He was focused on school and had no known reason to run away.
Why This Case Matters
This isn’t just a missing student case. Donaven could be in real danger. Each hour that passes without contact adds to growing concern. The weather has fluctuated in Columbia. He took nothing with him, as far as family knows — no backpack, no extra clothes, no supplies.
Campus police and Columbia Police Department are working together. Still, they need the public's help. Every moment counts.
You Can Make a Difference
Were you near Columbia Hall on May 7? Did you see Donaven at McDonald's or walking downtown afterward? Even the smallest tip could crack this case open.
Please call Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC if you know anything — tips can stay anonymous. You can also report sightings through the university's safety portal or local law enforcement.
Don’t Stay Silent — Help Bring Donaven Home
Donaven Dempsey matters. He is someone’s son, friend, student, and part of the Columbia community. His life deserves the attention of everyone reading this.
Please share his story. Stay alert. Help bring Donaven home.
