Amy Hillyard Oakland coffee shop owner of Farley’s in Cleveland Heights goes for walk on Wednesday only to fail to return. Undisclosed medical condition raises concerns amid Sunday vigil for safe return of missing mom of two.
A Bay Area community in California are holding out for hope after a much beloved local Oakland coffee store owner went for a Wednesday afternoon walk only to fail to return amid concerns for the missing woman’s well being and safety.
Amy Hillyard, 52, a mother of two and the owner of the well-known Farley’s coffee shops was last seen Wednesday, March 25, around 2:00 p.m., in the 500 block of Radnor Road, near Cleveland Street in Oakland’s Cleveland Heights neighborhood, south of Lake Merritt.
At the time of her disappearance, Hillyard, who was on foot was wearing a tan top and tan pants according to witnesses.
Undisclosed medical condition raises urgency of Oakland coffee store owner’s disappearance
A neighbor told KTVU they saw her walking her dog shortly before she disappeared.
Hillyard’s husband said she left her cellphone at home. Because of an undisclosed medical condition, police consider her at risk according to ABC7News.
Hillyard’s disappearance has prompted an outpouring of concern from residents and local business owners.
Hundreds gathered on the east side of Oakland’s Lake Merritt Sunday night for candlelight vigil amid ‘shared’ hope that the missing woman is alive and well and will soon return or be located.
Weekend vigil amid shared hope for safe return
Sunday vigil organizers reminded neighbors to check their home security cameras.
‘Please review your video cameras for evidence of her walking past your home,’ organizers said. ‘She loved hiking and walking. It’s very possible she could be on that video.’
Friends noted Hillyard’s active lifestyle and deep roots in the East Bay, making her sudden absence all the more concerning.
Oakland police continue to canvass the area and follow up on leads. Detectives have interviewed family members, neighbors and associates to build a timeline of Hillyard’s activities leading up to Wednesday afternoon.
Founded in 1989 by Hillyard’s father-in-law Roger Hillyard in San Francisco, Farley’s Coffee has grown into a beloved community hub in the East Bay and at SFO and OAK airports. Hillyard has been integral in keeping the store’s independent vibe in the face of coffee chain growth.
The Oakland Police Department described Hillyard as white, 5 feet 4 inches tall, weighing approximately 120 pounds, with blonde hair and hazel eyes.
Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the Oakland Police Department’s Missing Person Unit at 510-238-3641.
