Asha, Kishore, Shailesh, and Gita Divan vanished en route from New York to West Virginia; police intensify search operations
Four Indian-Origin Family Members Go Missing in the US
Authorities in the United States are searching for four Indian-origin senior citizens from New York who disappeared while traveling to a spiritual site in West Virginia. The missing family members have been identified as:
- Asha Divan (85)
- Kishore Divan (89)
- Shailesh Divan (86)
- Gita Divan (84)
The family was on their way from Buffalo, New York, to Prabhupada’s Palace of Gold in Marshall County, West Virginia, a popular spiritual destination.
Last Known Location and Vehicle Details
The group was last seen on July 29 at a Burger King in Pennsylvania. Surveillance footage showed two of the family members entering the restaurant. The family was traveling in a:
- 2009 lime green Toyota Camry
- New York license plate: EKW2611
A credit card transaction and a Pennsylvania State Police license plate reader confirmed the vehicle was headed south on I-79 at 2:45 pm that day.
Search and Investigation Efforts Intensify
Marshall County Sheriff Mike Dougherty stated that the family was expected to pass through Pittsburgh on their way to Moundsville, West Virginia, but never arrived.
Key search efforts include:
- Deputies from Marshall and Ohio counties conducting ground searches.
- Helicopters deployed to expand the search area.
- The vehicle information added to the National Crime Information Center database.
- A missing persons report filed in Buffalo, New York.
- Authorities attempting to track the group’s cell phone signals.
Community and Family Appeal for Help
The nonprofit Council of Heritage and Arts of India (CHAI), based in Williamsville, New York, has been raising awareness.
“Two couples who were traveling are currently missing, and we’re all deeply concerned. Hoping they’re safe and will be found soon,” said CHAI President Sibu Nair.
The Marshall County Sheriff’s Office has urged anyone with information to contact them at 304-843-5422.
A missing persons poster with names and photos of the missing individuals has also been circulated widely online.
Conclusion: Ongoing Search for the Divan Family
The disappearance of the Divan family has prompted concern and collaborative search efforts across multiple states. The investigation is ongoing as authorities and the community hope for their safe return.
