Richland County deputies launch urgent search for missing 42-year-old man in Columbia

Richland County deputies are searching for Kendrick Sanders, 42, a vulnerable adult with medical conditions last seen in Columbia, SC, on Sunday night.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 13, 2026, 10:59 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The State

Urgent Search for Vulnerable Adult in Richland County

Authorities in South Carolina have initiated a search for a 42-year-old man reported missing under concerning circumstances. Kendrick Sanders was last seen on Sunday, April 12, 2026, around 9:20 p.m. at his residence on Skyland Drive. The Richland County Sheriff’s Department issued a public alert on Monday morning, designating Sanders as a vulnerable adult who is "in need of immediate assistance." According to investigators, Sanders walked away from his home and has not been heard from since.

Location and Physical Description of Kendrick Sanders

Sanders disappeared from a neighborhood near the junction of Greystone Boulevard and Broad River Road in Columbia. He is described as a 6-foot-2 man weighing approximately 160 pounds. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a black hoodie featuring gold lettering, blue jeans, and black sneakers. Officials noted he may also be wearing a black skull cap. Law enforcement emphasized that Sanders suffers from multiple medical conditions that require consistent medication, heightening the urgency of the search.

Current Status of the Investigation

As of Monday morning, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department has not indicated whether foul play is suspected in Sanders’ disappearance. It remains unclear if Sanders was alone when he was last seen leaving his home. Search teams are currently focused on the Skyland Drive area and surrounding neighborhoods. Public safety officials are canvassing the region and reviewing any available surveillance footage that might track the direction Sanders took after leaving his residence.