Overview: Andy Tench, a 31-year-old resident of Belmont, was reported missing by his family on March 26, 2024. He was last seen leaving his residence on March 24, 2024, to celebrate his birthday. Mr. Tench's car, a 2010 Hyundai Elantra, was found abandoned in Matthews, NC, on March 25, 2024, sparking a search and investigation into his whereabouts.

Background: Andy Tench, a native of Gaston County, had recently moved back to the area from Colorado, where he had lived for approximately seven years after leaving N.C. State University. He had been working part-time at a nursing facility and was scheduled to start full-time work there on March 26, 2024, but he never showed up.

Timeline of Events:

• March 24, 2024: Andy Tench was last seen leaving his home to celebrate his birthday.
• March 25, 2024: Mr. Tench's car was found abandoned on U.S. 74 near Bonanza Road in the Monroe area. It was later spotted again on U.S. 74 near Gray Fox Road, still empty but with the hazard lights activated.
• March 25, 2024: Mr. Tench was seen at The Bar at 316, an LGBTQ+ friendly bar, in Charlotte at 12:30 a.m.
• March 26, 2024: Andy Tench was reported missing by his family.

Investigation: Law enforcement agencies, including Union County law enforcement and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, have been working to gather information and investigate leads regarding Mr. Tench's disappearance. Efforts have included obtaining phone and financial records, as well as coordinating community searches and distributing flyers.

Family's Response: Andy Tench's family has been actively involved in the search efforts, conducting searches in the areas where he was last seen, distributing flyers, and holding a candlelight vigil outside The Bar at 316 in Charlotte. They remain hopeful for his safe return and continue to appeal to the public for any information that may aid in the investigation.