Samantha Josephson was reported missing by her friends on Friday, March 29. She was last seen between 1:30-2:00 a.m. local time at The Bird Dog bar. After the 21-year-old student from the University of South Carolina did not return home to her apartment, her friends contacted authorities.
Unfortunately, on Saturday, March 30, it was confirmed that Josephson was found dead.
Friends believe that Josephson entered a vehicle she believed to be her Uber before vanishing.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that I write these words this morning. Our prayers are with the family and friends of Samantha Josephson following the devastating news of her death,” University President Harris Pastides said in a statement.
“Times like these leave me searching for words of wisdom and comfort. However, I take solace that the Carolina Family is here to embrace those who are hurting.”
Additional information on Josephson’s passing can be seen below.
Samantha Josephson Cause Of Death: Currently Unknown
Sad News: USC Student, Samantha Josephson, Found Dead After Getting Into Car She Believed to be Her Uber https://t.co/5ebiaYhkrl pic.twitter.com/Jze2bAUdCI
— Hip-HopVibe.com (@HipHopVibe1) March 30, 2019
At the time of this writing, the Columbia Police Department has not confirmed a cause of death. They have, however, released information as they continue to search for clues about Josephson’s disappearance.
A photo showing Josephson on the phone is being circulated by police and it is the last known photo before her disappearance.
Cont’d: Here’s another picture of Josephson when she was last seen on Harden Street talking on the phone. Pay close attention to what she was wearing early this a.m. Call @MidlandsCrime at 1-888-CRIME-SC w/your helpful tips regarding her whereabouts. pic.twitter.com/PZSokgwFYN
— Columbia Police Dept (@ColumbiaPDSC) March 30, 2019
After getting off of the phone, Josephson approached a newer model Chevy Impala, which appears to be black. It was the last time that she was spotted alive.
“Special Victims Unit investigators believe that shortly after 2:00 a.m., Josephson was seen getting into this newer model Chevy Impala along Harden Street,” authorities said.
Cont’d: Special Victims Unit investigators believe that shortly after 2:00 a.m., Josephson was seen getting into this newer model Chevy Impala along Harden Street. Family & friends have been trying to locate her ever since. Again, call @MidlandsCrime 1-888-CRIME-SC w/your tips. pic.twitter.com/3211Wjx6PK
— Columbia Police Dept (@ColumbiaPDSC) March 30, 2019
“The loss of a student is never easy but this has been a particularly painful few days as we have experienced loss on several of our campuses,” Pastides said. “As a family, let’s continue to pray for all the families experiencing heartache and grief this week.”
Our deepest condolences are with Josephson’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.
Anyone with information is urged to call 1-888-(CRIME-SC).