Hephzibah, GA — Authorities in Richmond County are urgently searching for a missing woman, identified as 36-year-old Ashley Kitchens, who disappeared Saturday evening under mysterious circumstances. Investigators say she was last seen walking along Lake Michigan Drive in Hephzibah and may have later traveled toward New Karleen Road or Ulm Road. Her sudden disappearance has sparked a growing community effort to bring her home safely.

The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has issued a missing person alert, asking the public for any information regarding Ashley’s whereabouts. Deputies say she left her residence unexpectedly and has not been heard from since. The circumstances surrounding her disappearance remain unclear, and officials are exploring all possible leads to determine what happened after she was last seen.

Family members say Ashley suffers from bipolar disorder and depression, conditions that may make her vulnerable and in need of immediate medical attention. Loved ones have expressed growing concern for her safety, emphasizing that this sudden disappearance is out of character. They are pleading with the public to stay alert and report any sightings or relevant details to law enforcement.

“She’s not herself when she doesn’t take her medication,” a family member shared. “We’re just praying someone sees her and helps her get home. Every minute that passes feels like an eternity.” Search efforts are intensifying as family, friends, and volunteers continue to canvass surrounding areas.

Authorities have deployed search teams throughout Hephzibah and neighboring communities, focusing on wooded areas, roadways, and public spaces where Ashley might have sought shelter. Drones and K-9 units are being used to cover larger stretches of land efficiently. Police say they have received several tips, but none have yet led to her discovery.

Investigators believe Ashley may still be in the Hephzibah area but are not ruling out the possibility that she could have traveled outside Richmond County. Officials urge residents in nearby towns to remain vigilant, particularly those living near rural routes, wooded paths, or abandoned structures where someone might seek refuge.

Local organizations and community members have joined the search, distributing flyers and sharing Ashley’s photo across social media platforms. Gas stations, stores, and churches have also joined in by posting missing person notices to raise awareness. The community’s strong response reflects the collective hope of finding her safe and unharmed.

The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office continues to coordinate with other law enforcement agencies to widen the search. Officers are reviewing surveillance footage from businesses and traffic cameras near the last known locations. Authorities are also asking property owners to check their outdoor cameras for any unusual activity between Saturday evening and early Sunday morning.

As the search enters its fifth day, family members remain determined and hopeful. They are asking anyone who might have seen Ashley or spoken with her recently to come forward, no matter how minor the information may seem. “Even the smallest tip could be the one that brings her home,” officials reminded the public.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Ashley Kitchens is urged to contact the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office immediately at 706-821-1080. Authorities emphasize that time is critical in missing person cases and that community cooperation could be the key to ensuring her safe return.