Family of Chicago woman missing in the Bahamas urge FBI for help on her 42nd birthday

In a heartfelt plea for continued search efforts, the family of Taylor Casey, a Chicago woman missing in the Bahamas for nearly a month, gathered to mark her birthday and urge authorities to intensify their search. Casey, a prominent figure in Chicago's transgender community, traveled to the Bahamas for a yoga retreat at Sivananda Ashram Yoga in June. Her disappearance has sparked criticism towards the police and the retreat center for their handling of the investigation. During a news conference livestreamed by CNN affiliate WLS, Casey's mother, Colette Seymore, expressed the anguish of having her daughter missing, emphasizing the need for more proactive measures in the search. The Royal Bahamas Police Force superintendent in charge of the criminal investigation department has been placed on leave pending an investigation, amidst growing concerns over the handling of the case. Family and friends of Casey have called for the FBI's involvement in the search, citing dissatisfaction with the current investigation and fears that her case may be overlooked, particularly in light of statistics showing the vulnerability of Black transgender individuals. Authorities in the Bahamas recently recovered an iPhone believed to belong to Casey, but have been unable to access its contents, adding to the mystery surrounding her disappearance. Despite collaborative efforts between the ashram and the police, questions remain about the extent of awareness among ashram residents regarding Casey's disappearance. As the search continues, Casey's loved ones are determined to keep the pressure on both American and Bahamian authorities, seeking answers and closure in the midst of uncertainty surrounding the circumstances of her disappearance.