Family pleads for safe return of SC Broadway dancer as search continues

COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) – The search continues for a South Carolina dancer who went missing two weeks ago.

The family of Zelig Williams, 28, and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department (RCSD) held a press conference Wednesday, encouraging the public to share any tips that might help find him.

Williams was reported missing and was last seen leaving his home on Longwood Road on October 3.

According to a news release, a family member said a friend of Williams’ received an SOS alert on his phone that morning. The SOS alert was about a crash on Williams’ phone.

His car was found a day later in the Palmetto Trail Head parking lot. His car had no evidence of involvement in an accident and Williams’ belongings were found in the vehicle.

The press conference took place at 11 a.m. at the Richland County Sheriff’s Department headquarters.

Williams’ mother, cousin and dance coach spoke at the press conference about the Columbia native and his impact on his family.

Each person who spoke on Williams’ behalf gave an emotional statement.

“He is truly the most talented individual I have ever met in my life,” said Caroline Lewis-Jones, one of Williams’ dance coaches. “She’s my muse.”

Williams’ cousin, Mieoki Corbett-Jacobs, pleaded for her son’s safe return.

“Please be careful. Look at his face. On the flyers, on the photos. He may have facial hair, but he may not. Please be careful,” Corbett-Jacobs said. “We are begging you to be careful and bring him home.”

His mother, Kathy Williams, made a very emotional statement, saying that her son was all she had. She also pleaded for the return of her son.

“I just want Zelig to come home. He’s all I have,” she said through tears.

Williams’ disappearance made national headlines.

The Columbia native is known for being a professional dancer. He has danced in several Broadway productions, including Hamilton and MJ: The Musical.

Private investigator Chandra Cleveland, of SHE-Private Investigations, was hired by Williams’ family to investigate her disappearance.

Her cousin also said at the news conference that they believe Williams stopped taking her medication just before she disappeared.