Missing Teacher From Davidson Believed Murdered In Mexico: Report

DAVIDSON, NC — Mooresville teacher Patrick Braxton-Andrew, who went missing more than two weeks ago while vacationing in a remote area of northern Mexico, is believed to be dead, murdered at the hands of a criminal organization, according to reports.

The news comes as a devastating blow for the Lake Norman community who have held a vigil and tied yellow ribbons around trees and posts for the 34-year-old Davidson native since he was reported missing.

“Based on information provided by the Chihuahua State authorities, it is with great sadness that we announce that Patrick died on October 28th at the hands of a criminal organization that operates in the area where he was traveling,” said the family’s Facebook page devoted to the search for him. “The search continues to recover his body so we can bring him back home. The authorities are searching for those responsible to bring them to justice. The family would like to thank the Chihuahua Governor and Attorney General for their unwavering commitment to locating Patrick.

“Patrick died doing what he loved—traveling and meeting people. Join us in celebrating his life as he would want us to do. We will always remember Patrick and his joy for life. We love you PBA," it said.

A spanish teacher at the Woodlawn School in Mooresville, Braxton-Andrew frequently traveled to Central America on vacation. According to earlier reports, he had traveled to the town of Urique in late October to hike the Copper Canyon and was to meet his brother in Mexico City on Oct. 30. His family reported him missing when he didn't arrive.

Early search efforts were focused on hiking trails in the canyon gorge area, with about 20-50 searchers coming the terrain Nov. 1, according to an update by his family on the Facebook page devoted to relaying information about search and rescue efforts. “They are checking trails in the local area as it is believed that Patrick was either injured while hiking or has gotten lost,” the site said.

By Nov. 3, the search included state and local Mexican authorities, and had expanded to neighboring towns.

However, after personal items such as a laptop, debit card, hiking shoes and camera were found in his hotel room, his family deduced he had not been on a hike when he went missing.

“He’s a missing person, not a missing hiker,” his brother Kerry told the Washington Post in a recent interview.

News of his death had spread throughout the community Thursday afternoon, with more than 500 messages of condolence on the social media site. “Davidson still wants him home!” said Anne Alexander Veleke said.

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