By Missing Person South Africa | June 25, 2025
Vanished Without a Trace: Celeste and Her Dog Missing Since Friday
It has now been five long, heart-wrenching days since Celeste van Awegen and her loyal dog Shadow went missing without a trace, after reportedly heading toward Lanseria Airport from Garsfontein, Gauteng. The search continues, with loved ones, rescue volunteers, and the public growing increasingly desperate for answers.
Celeste, described by friends and family as gentle-natured and dependable, was last seen driving her sea grey Volkswagen Amarok, accompanied by her beloved dog Shadow. The 41-year-old woman had visited her ex-husband on the morning of Friday, June 21, and was believed to be on her way to catch a flight—but she never made it to the airport.
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“It’s Like She Vanished Into Thin Air” — Search Enters Critical Phase
Speaking to Missing Person South Africa, Dawn Gounden, coordinator at Renegades Search and Rescue, emphasized the urgency of the ongoing operation.
“We are working tirelessly with ground teams, drones, and local authorities. The vehicle has not been spotted, and there has been no activity on her phone or bank accounts. It’s like she vanished into thin air,” Gounden said.
She urged the public to remain vigilant:
“Someone, somewhere, may have seen something—maybe on the road, at a petrol station, even on dashcam footage. No piece of information is too small.”
🧠Last Known Movements: Piecing Together the Timeline
- June 21, Morning: Celeste visits her ex-husband in Garsfontein.
- June 21, Afternoon: She reportedly leaves for Lanseria Airport.
- June 21, Evening: Family members become concerned when she fails to check in or respond to calls.
- June 22–25: An official missing person case is opened; local authorities and search teams begin active investigation and outreach.
Family Pleads for Help: “We Just Want Her Home Safe”
Celeste’s family, shared an emotional appeal on Tuesday evening.
“Celeste has always been the cautious one in the family. She would never just disappear like this. Shadow is her everything—if she’s out there, she’s scared, and so is he. Please help us bring them home.”
Her family has been working closely with police and volunteer search crews, distributing flyers and urging the public to help spread the word.
The Bigger Picture: Missing Adults in South Africa
While many associate missing person cases with children, statistics show that adults make up over 60% of missing persons in South Africa, according to data compiled by NGOs and SAPS annual reports. Women traveling alone, even within city limits, remain particularly vulnerable to various threats—including roadside hijackings, abductions, and mental health crises.
“We need to normalise talking about safety, not just for children but for all of us. Celeste’s case is not isolated. Every community must be alert,” said crime activist and safety advisor Thando Ndlovu.
🛡️ How You Can Stay Safe: 5 Tips for Everyday Travel
Whether you’re commuting, traveling to meet someone, or taking your pet to a vet, these simple safety measures could save lives:
- Always share your location in real-time with a trusted friend or family member.
- Use secure, well-lit routes and avoid isolated areas when traveling alone.
- Keep your phone fully charged and carry a power bank.
- Install safety apps that allow you to send quick alerts in emergencies.
- Trust your instincts—if something feels off, don’t ignore it.
Read | Missing Gauteng woman and her dog: Search enters day 4 after vanishing on her way to Lanseria
🫶🏽 Let’s Bring Celeste and Shadow Home Together
This is not just a story about a woman and her dog—it’s a call to action for every South African to remain vigilant, compassionate, and united.
🙏🏼 If you have any information—even something that may seem insignificant—please contact:
đź“ž Garsfontein SAPS: 012 472 0144
📱 Dawn Gounden (Search & Rescue): 074 712 5855
đź’¬ Have you ever experienced a situation where a loved one disappeared, even for a short while? What did you learn from it? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below to help others stay alert.
📢 Please share this article across your social media platforms, WhatsApp groups, and community forums. Help us ensure Celeste and Shadow are not forgotten—because someone, somewhere, might hold the key to bringing them home.
🕊️ With hope,
The Missing Person South Africa Team
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