The disappearance of Gossip Girl actress Chanel Maya Banks, 36, has sparked a growing mystery.
After two weeks without contact, she was reportedly located in Texas early Wednesday morning, with police confirming she was “safe and sound” with no injuries.
However, Banks’ family quickly disputed this claim, insisting that the woman found in Texas was not their relative.
They also accused the media of spreading false information.
Family’s Concerns and Disputes with Authorities
Chanel’s cousin, Danielle Tori-Singh, took to social media to clarify that the person identified as Chanel in Texas was not her, despite claims from law enforcement.
Danielle, who has known Chanel for 31 years, was adamant: “I have positively identified that that is not her.”
According to the Los Angeles Times, the family believes someone may have been using an expired ID belonging to the actress.
Since Chanel’s disappearance was first noticed on November 8, her family has been vocal about their concerns, claiming that her husband was uncooperative with authorities.
They even started a GoFundMe page that has raised over $3,000 to aid in the search.
Unsettling Discoveries
Chanel’s last known communication was a text to Danielle on October 30, and a FaceTime conversation on October 27.
The family grew alarmed when they realized they hadn’t heard from her in days, which was unusual since Chanel is known for staying in touch frequently.
Upon visiting her apartment in Playa Vista, family members discovered that Chanel’s belongings, including her emotional support dog and car, were still at the residence.
However, her phone and laptop were missing, raising suspicions among her relatives.
Danielle shared with ABC7 News: “Five days without hearing from my cousin is red flags and alarm bells.”
The Role of Chanel’s Husband and the Investigation
Chanel’s husband, who she married just a year ago, has become a central figure in the investigation.
Danielle noted that her cousin never goes anywhere without her dog, which was found at the apartment.
“Her husband is extremely suspicious,” she added, mentioning that he had been removing missing person flyers from around their neighborhood.
Despite these concerns, police have not found enough evidence to suspect foul play.
Authorities have conducted multiple welfare checks at Chanel’s apartment, but she was not found at home during any of these visits.
The family is increasingly frustrated by the lack of progress in the case, especially since Chanel’s phone has been unresponsive.
Support and the Search for Answers
As the days pass, Chanel’s family is relentless in their search.
Danielle, who flew in from Toronto, has been assisting with the investigation and placing flyers in the area.
“I’m not going to leave California until I find my cousin,” she told KTLA 5.
Chanel’s mother, Judy Singh, also traveled to California and pleaded for prayers, saying, “We just want to know you’re okay and that you’re safe.”
The family is now focusing on raising funds to hire a private investigator and continue their search.
The GoFundMe page aims to cover the expenses of their stay in Los Angeles and the investigation, with a goal of $20,000.
As of Tuesday, the page had raised nearly $3,000.
A Family in Desperation
Chanel’s disappearance remains shrouded in mystery.
Despite police not suspecting her husband of any criminal activity, the family continues to search for answers.
Danielle’s emotional plea sums up their current state: “Chanel has no family or friends here and would NEVER go somewhere without telling her mom.”
The family’s fight to bring Chanel home continues, and they are determined to find out what happened to the actress who is known for her roles in Gossip Girl, Blue Bloods, Suits, and the film Twelve.
As the search intensifies, the next steps in the investigation will hopefully bring some clarity to this troubling situation.
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