DC Police Ask for Help in Case of 20-Year-Old Missing Person

WASHINGTON – Twenty years after a Northeast D.C. woman disappeared, police are asking for help in solving her unsolved case.

Gwendolyn Carswell was 44 years old when she disappeared in 2004. Police say she had many friends and relatives and was a mother. When she suddenly cut off contact with her children, it was not like her at all.

Carswell was last seen on August 17, 2004 near the corner of 18th and Otis Streets in the northeast.

Washington DC police say the person or people responsible for her disappearance may live in the District or have ties there. They believe Carswell may have been targeted by someone who likely knew her.

If you noticed anyone behaving strangely around the time of Carswell's disappearance, this information may help police. Police advise being mindful of anyone who experiences a change in mood, lifestyle or appearance, who suddenly leaves the area after her disappearance, who has illogical explanations for the disposal of a vehicle, clothing or injuries, or who inexplicably becomes focused on Carswell or her case and then suddenly loses interest.

Anyone who is hesitant to come forward because they were unknowingly involved in the incident, fear for their safety, have relationships with people involved or did not realize their information was important should report their information, even if they think it is insignificant, police say. Anyone reporting information can remain anonymous, and police say it is not too late to come forward.

Anyone with information about the disappearance of Gwendolyn Carswell should call police at (202) 727-9099 or text their tip to 50411.