The disappearance of Tionda and Diamond Bradley is a heart-wrenching case that remains unsolved even after more than two decades. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the case and the ongoing search for the missing Bradley sisters:
Circumstances Surrounding the Disappearance:
- Date and Setting: On July 6, 2001, in Chicago’s South Side, Tracey Bradley, a single mother of four, left her daughters Tionda (10 years old) and Diamond (3 years old) at home while she went to work in the early morning hours. Upon returning home around 11 am, the girls were missing, and a note indicating they went to a nearby grocery store and then to a playground was left behind.
- Family Dynamics: Tracey had arrangements for her daughters’ care while she worked. Tionda, described as responsible and smart for her age, often helped take care of her younger sister Diamond.
- Initial Search and Investigation: Tracey, family members, and law enforcement organized extensive searches throughout the city, including checking with registered sex offenders and various locations, but no trace of the girls was found.
Clues and Suspicions:
- Note and Phone Message: The note left behind was considered unusual for Tionda, showing advanced grammar and handwriting. Additionally, a voicemail left on Tracey’s phone indicated Tionda saying, “Ma, George is at the door,” suggesting a possible reference to a neighbor named George who had occasionally babysat for the family.
- Person of Interest: George Washington, Tracey’s on-again-off-again boyfriend, became a person of interest. Reports indicated he allegedly planned a camping trip involving Diamond and Tionda, lacking the necessary resources, and suspicious receipts for items like neoprene gloves, gardening gloves, and heavy-duty trash bags were found.
Ongoing Challenges and False Claims:
- False Claims: Over the years, several women have claimed to be either Tionda or Diamond, adding emotional turmoil and confusion to the case. These claims have been proven false through DNA testing.
Current Status:
- Unresolved Case: Despite extensive efforts, including numerous searches and investigations, the whereabouts of Tionda and Diamond remain unknown, and the case remains unsolved.
The Bradley family continues to endure the anguish of not knowing what happened to their loved ones. Despite the false claims and conflicting evidence, their determination to find answers and bring closure to this devastating mystery remains steadfast.
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Bradley sisters