The coastal town of Bolivia, North Carolina, is known for its peaceful atmosphere and friendly locals. However, a chilling mystery has cast a shadow over the community, leaving residents both bewildered and heartbroken. Elba Joe Dorene Wade, a beloved mother of four and passionate exotic Bulldog breeder, vanished without a trace, only to be found dead under mysterious circumstances.
A Life Cut Short: Remembering Elba
Elba, 32, was a radiant soul who touched the lives of everyone she met. “She was outgoing, bubbly, and one of the most uplifting people you could be around,” shared Caitlyn Maynard, a close friend. Elba’s infectious positivity drew people to her, and she had an uncanny ability to brighten even the darkest of days.
Her love for her four children was unparalleled. “She cared about those boys more than her own life,” Caitlyn revealed. Elba’s dedication to her children extended beyond her own family. She embraced her role as a stepmother to her husband’s two children from a previous relationship, showering them with the same love and affection she gave her own.
Elba’s passion for breeding exotic Bulldogs was evident to all who knew her. She had relocated from Oklahoma to North Carolina to pursue this dream, traveling across the country to showcase her dogs in prestigious competitions. Elba’s dedication paid off, earning her accolades and recognition within the dog breeding community. “She was the best in Frenchies,” Anastasia, another close friend, proudly stated. Elba poured her heart and soul into creating her own bloodline of Bulldogs, a testament to her unwavering determination.
Alt text: A woman smiling at the camera while holding a small dog
A Fateful Day: The Disappearance and Discovery
On July 15th, 2023, Elba was scheduled to meet Anastasia, a routine occurrence for the two friends. They exchanged text messages throughout the day, making plans to meet. However, in retrospect, Anastasia felt something was amiss in Elba’s messages. “I told Caitlyn I felt like she was rushing me, but she would never say something was wrong,” Anastasia recalled, highlighting Elba’s tendency to shield her loved ones from worry.
When Anastasia arrived at the designated meeting spot, Elba was nowhere to be found. Concern quickly turned to panic as Anastasia’s messages went unanswered. It was unlike Elba to vanish without a word, especially considering her deep love for her children.
Frantic, Elba’s friends contacted the authorities, and a massive search effort was launched. Over a hundred first responders, including fire departments, sheriff’s offices, and volunteers, combed through the area, utilizing helicopters and four-wheelers to cover more ground. The investigation eventually led them to a densely wooded area known as Colonel Landing in Bolivia, North Carolina.
Tragically, their worst fears were confirmed when Elba’s lifeless body was discovered within the woods.
Unanswered Questions: Seeking Justice for Elba
The discovery of Elba’s body only deepened the mystery surrounding her untimely death. The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office remained tight-lipped about the details, stating only that there was no threat to the public and that Elba’s death was still under investigation.
However, Elba’s friends and family believe there is more to the story. They paint a picture of a devoted mother who would never abandon her children, especially her four-year-old son, Carson. Adding to the suspicion is the fact that Elba was reportedly found with her four-year-old son, Carson, who later told authorities he had been wandering in the woods for hours, searching for help. “He went to sleep in the mud with his mommy,” a family friend shared, recounting the harrowing experience Carson endured.
Alt text: A group of people standing in a wooded area
Adding to the suspicion is the fact that Elba was recovering from a recent ankle injury, making it highly unlikely she would have ventured into the woods willingly, let alone with a child. “She couldn’t walk,” Caitlyn insisted. “There’s no way she was in the woods just exploring with him like that.”
The lack of transparency from authorities has only fueled their suspicions of foul play. “They just don’t seem to care as much about that as they um catching somebody for drugs,” Caitlyn lamented, expressing her frustration with what she perceives as a lack of urgency in the investigation.
A Mother’s Legacy: The Fight for Answers
Elba’s loved ones are determined to keep her memory alive and seek justice for the loving mother and friend taken too soon. They believe someone holds the key to unraveling the truth behind Elba’s tragic demise and are pleading for anyone with information to come forward.
The trauma of that day continues to haunt young Carson, who is now left to grapple with the loss of his mother at such a tender age. “He deserves to be at peace,” Caitlyn emphasized, highlighting the need for closure and justice.
Elba’s story is a stark reminder that even in the most tranquil of places, darkness can lurk. As the investigation continues, her friends and family cling to the hope that justice will be served, providing some semblance of peace amidst the pain and unanswered questions.