From The Trussville Tribune staff reports
TRUSSVILLE — The family of Paighton Houston, missing since Friday, Dec. 20, made an impassioned plea on social media for her safe return.
“We have to go on facts and we have some known facts at this time, but not much,” Charlaine Houston said. “We have not seen video surveillance yet so we don’t have answers other than what detectives have released.”
Paighton Houston, 29, was last seen leaving the Tin Roof bar at about 10:45 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 20, with two people the Birmingham Police described as “heavy set black men.” Employees of different businesses in Lakeview around the Tin Roof said police have canvassed the area to check video from multiple businesses.
The ordeal has been difficult for the close knit family. In their hometown of Trussville, yellow bows — referred to by Mayor Buddy Choat as “Bows for Hope” — have started appearing as a reminder to pray for Paighton Houston’s return to her family.
“This is terribly heartbreaking, frustrating and scary for all of us, but our concern is for Paighton,” Charlaine Houston said. “I know my daughter and she is with someone she doesn’t know and in danger. She is family oriented and had plans for Saturday with her best friend, sister and family.”
Charlaine Houston said the family is trying to piece together the events of the day her daughter went missing.
“I know she left our home Friday morning for work and was in contact with her family throughout the day,” Charlaine Houston said. “She sent the message to the coworker that she rode with to the Tin Roof that ‘if I call answer, I don’t know these people and I feel in trouble.’ We want to know every detail and we want Paighton to come home safely to us.”
Paighton Houston’s disappearance has reached Gov. Kay Ivey’s office, who offered a $5,000 reward as of Friday. That offer came after Choat reached out to State Representative Danny Garrett, who in turn contacted the governor’s office. Crimestoppers of Metro Alabama had previously issued a reward for the same amount, bringing the total reward to $10,000.
“Unfortunately, another female is missing in the state of Alabama,” Ivey said. “The whereabouts of Paighton Laine Houston have been unknown since Friday, December 20. In the midst of the busy holiday season, it is critical that we support Paighton, her family and law enforcement to ensure we do everything possible to bring her home.
“I am issuing a $5,000 reward to help encourage anyone with credible information to contact the appropriate authorities and help make that happen.”
The family expressed gratitude for the widespread support and believes keeping the story at the forefront of everyone’s attention is paramount.
“Our family appreciates everything that everyone is doing to help share her story,” Charlaine Houston said. “Thank you all for the prayers, love and support. This is a horrible nightmare for us and especially Paighton. Keep sharing her story and bring Paighton home!”