A Charleston family is desperately searching for answers after a local firefighter went missing while on vacation in Bali, Indonesia. Friends, colleagues, and law enforcement agencies are now working together to help bring him home safely.
Charleston Fire Engineer Missing in Bali
Wesley Fairey, a fire engineer with the James Island Public Service District (JIPSD), traveled to Uluwatu, Bali, on August 15. He was supposed to return to the United States on September 8, but his family says he disappeared before making it back.
According to friends, Fairey was staying at the Klapa Resort and checked out on August 25. That same day, witnesses say he was seen leaving in a black rental sedan. His family says they lost contact with him four days later.
Family Pleads for Help
Fairey’s mother, Taunya, has been reaching out for any information that might help locate her son.
“We have been in contact with numerous local, state, and federal agencies regarding information pertaining to his whereabouts. We are hoping someone can provide us with information about any bank or phone activity during that time,” she said in a statement.
Friends also noted that Fairey has a history of mental health struggles, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) connected to his 20 years of service as a first responder.
Support from Fire Department and Authorities
JIPSD Fire Chief Mark Davis confirmed that the department is actively helping in the search.
“We’re doing everything we can to support his family and friends during this difficult time and are eagerly awaiting his safe return home,” Davis said.
So far, U.S. Homeland Security and other agencies have been contacted. His family hopes new leads will emerge through Fairey’s bank or phone records during the days he went missing.
Description of Missing Firefighter
Authorities describe Wesley Fairey as:
Male in his early 40s
Approximately 6 feet tall
Weighs about 250 pounds
Has facial hair
What to Do If You Have Information
Anyone who may have information about Wesley Fairey’s whereabouts is urged to contact U.S. Homeland Security immediately.
The disappearance of Wesley Fairey has left his family, friends, and fellow firefighters deeply concerned. As the search continues in Bali, the community back in Charleston is rallying around his loved ones, holding out hope that he will be found safe and return home soon.
