Search continues for missing American researcher in Table Mountain area of Cape Town

Volunteers and police are currently conducting a search and rescue operation to find Julie Goodness, an American postdoctoral researcher who has been missing since Monday morning in the Table Mountain area of Cape Town, South Africa. Goodness, who has been living in Cape Town for the past 14 years, was last seen in the Higgovale area wearing a purple/pink long-sleeved sports top, blue jeans, colourful sneakers, an oversized jacket, and carrying a white canvas bag.

Goodness’ background

According to her LinkedIn profile, Goodness works at the Stockholm Resilience Centre as a postdoctoral researcher. She is also a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Global Risk Governance programme’s Art of Resilience project at the University of Cape Town. The Atlantic Seaboard Community Forum has posted a missing person’s message on their Facebook page, stating that Goodness may be on the mountain somewhere as she is a regular trail runner.

Previous incidents

This is not the first time a foreign national has gone missing in the Table Mountain area. Nick Frischke, who was on holiday in Cape Town, vanished after allegedly being robbed on a hiking trail in the Hout Bay area. His family has offered a reward of R20 000 to anyone who can provide information regarding his whereabouts.

Precautions while hiking

The Table Mountain area in Cape Town is a popular hiking destination, attracting both tourists and locals. However, it is important to take precautions such as hiking in a group, carrying a fully charged phone and enough water, and sticking to marked paths. Hiking accidents and incidents of crime are not uncommon in the area. Despite the risks, many hikers are drawn to the beauty and natural wonder of Table Mountain, and volunteers and emergency services are dedicated to ensuring the safety of those who venture into the area.

Importance of safety and vigilance

The search for Julie Goodness continues, and anyone with information is urged to contact Cape Town Central SAPS Missing persons number 04/04/2023. The disappearance of Goodness and Frischke highlights the importance of taking necessary precautions while hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Table Mountain. It is crucial to prioritize safety and remain vigilant, especially in unfamiliar areas.