Authorities in Prince George’s County are searching for Esube “Izzy” Wondwossen, a 22-year-old Howard University student who has been reported missing after last being seen in Northern Virginia on September 15, 2026.
Police say Wondwossen was last observed leaving the Pentagon Metro Station in Arlington, Virginia, and was later seen wearing a black zip-up hoodie, black leggings, Crocs, and a headband, while carrying a Michael Kors tote bag. She is described as a Black woman, approximately 5 feet 1 inch tall, weighing around 110 pounds, with a distinctive mole above her left eyebrow.
Family members say her disappearance is deeply out of character. Her father reported that he dropped her off at the Branch Avenue Metro Station early that morning, believing she was heading to her usual university routine. According to relatives, she appeared happy and in good spirits at the time, with no signs of distress.
Her sister shared that Wondwossen is a senior at Howard University and was looking forward to graduating, making her sudden disappearance especially alarming for those close to her. The family also noted confusion about why she would have traveled to Alexandria, a location not expected in her normal commute.
Concerns grew further after it was discovered that her phone’s location tracking appeared to have been turned off. This has intensified the search efforts as investigators work to trace her movements across multiple transit points, including bus and Metro routes across the region.
Police are urging anyone with information, CCTV footage, or possible sightings to come forward immediately as the investigation expands across Northern Virginia and surrounding areas. Community members and classmates have also begun sharing alerts in hopes of locating her safely.
Wondwossen’s family continues to appeal for help, holding onto hope that she is safe. Her mother expressed both fear and hope, saying she wishes for her daughter’s safe return while acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding her disappearance.
Authorities continue to treat the case as an active missing persons investigation, with updates expected as new information becomes available.