A vigil was held in downtown Columbia for 15-year-old Elizabeth Thomas.
Friends and family held the vigil Sunday evening where many spoke and prayers were prayed. They said they hope she comes home soon, and they hope she’s safe.
“Many of us haven't slept in weeks,” said Caleb Banks, a friend.
“We are creating light and hope. The candles represent hope,” said Rachel Irby, the organizer of the vigil.
Elizabeth and her former teacher, 50-year-old Tad Cummins, disappeared on March 13. Monday was set to mark three weeks since they went missing.
“We just need you home, and we love you and the house is empty and quiet without you,” said Elizabeth’s sister, Ninita Thomas.
According to the family's attorney, Elizabeth had confided in a sibling that Cummins convinced her she has no future in college. The attorney added that the friend who dropped Elizabeth off at Shoney's the day she went missing said Elizabeth had mentioned wanting to be taken home.
Friends handed out green ribbons at the Mule Day parade on Saturday. Ribbons have still been on display on the square in Columbia. They said they hope she sees it and realizes how much support and love she has at home.
The pair was captured on surveillance video at a Walmart in Oklahoma City on March 15, but there have been no other confirmed sightings of them.
It was unknown what vehicle they may be traveling in. Anyone with information has been urged to call 1-800-824-3463.
