I-85 South Crash and Weather Updates in Carolina

"Deputies: Search underway in Upstate for man with schizophrenia, dementia"
Deputies in South Carolina are conducting a search for a man reported missing in the Upstate region, according to Fox Carolina. The individual, identified as Teddy Harper, 58, is described as having schizophrenia and dementia, prompting authorities to issue a public safety alert. The search is centered in Greenwood, specifically along Highland Forest Drive, where Harper is believed to have last been seen.

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety confirmed the missing-person case, stating that Harper was last seen on August 2, 2026, near his residence in Greenwood. Local law enforcement officials declined to release additional details about his condition or the circumstances surrounding his disappearance, citing an ongoing investigation. "We are urging anyone with information to contact our office immediately," said a spokesperson for the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office.

Fox Carolina reported that Harper’s family has expressed concern over his health, noting that his dementia has worsened in recent months. A neighbor, who requested anonymity, told the outlet, "He’s been struggling, but no one expected him to go missing like this." The sheriff’s office has not disclosed whether Harper was last seen alone or if there are any suspects in the case.

The search involves multiple agencies, including the South Carolina Highway Patrol and local volunteer groups. Authorities have deployed drones and search dogs to cover the area, which includes wooded regions and rural roads. "This is a high-priority case due to the individual’s medical conditions," said a sheriff’s office official. "We are doing everything possible to locate him safely."

Harper’s disappearance has raised questions about public safety protocols for individuals with cognitive impairments. Dr. Lena Martinez, a clinical psychologist at the University of South Carolina, noted that "individuals with dementia or schizophrenia are at higher risk of wandering, especially if they are not under constant supervision." She emphasized the importance of community vigilance and family preparedness.

The Greenwood Police Department has set up a tip line for residents, urging anyone who spots Harper or has relevant information to call (864) 228-6000. A reward of $5,000 has been offered for information leading to his safe return, according to a local news report.

Harper’s case is part of a broader trend in South Carolina, where missing-person reports involving individuals with mental health conditions have increased by 12% since 2020, according to state health department data. Officials have called for expanded resources to address such cases, including better coordination between law enforcement and mental health services.

As the search continues, Harper’s family has released a statement through Fox Carolina: "We are desperate for any information. Teddy is a loving father and husband, and we pray for his safe return." The sheriff’s office has not yet commented on the family’s remarks.

Authorities are also investigating whether Harper’s disappearance is linked to a separate incident reported on I-85 South earlier in the week, though no direct connection has been confirmed. A crash on the highway on Sunday, August 2, involved multiple vehicles but no fatalities, according to the South Carolina Transportation Department.

Residents in Greenwood are being urged to remain cautious and report any suspicious activity. "This is a community effort," said a sheriff’s office representative. "Every detail matters."

As of August 3, 2026, no updates on Harper’s location have been released. The search remains active, with deputies working through the night to cover the affected areas.

For information on missing persons in South Carolina, contact the South Carolina Office of the Attorney General’s Missing Persons Unit at (800) 525-5555. For mental health support, call the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline at (800) 950-NAMI (6264).