Unadilla, Georgia (AP) — The case of missing eight-year-old Shy’Kemmia “Shy Shy” Shy’Rezz Pate remains unsolved since her disappearance on September 4, 1998, from her home in Unadilla, Georgia. Shy’Kemmia, who was last seen playing outside her family home on Crumpler Avenue, has been missing for over two decades, and the community continues to hold out hope for answers in this tragic case.
What Happened: The Day Shy’Kemmia Went Missing
On the evening of September 4, 1998, Shy’Kemmia was waiting for her older sister, LaSwanda, to pick her up for a local high school football game. It was around 7:00 p.m. when she was last seen playing outside, near The Roxy Club. Multiple people reported seeing Shy’Kemmia in the area before she vanished, but the exact time of her disappearance is unknown.
Initially, the family believed Shy’Kemmia had gone to the football game with another family member, but when she was not found there, a search began that night. Unfortunately, despite extensive efforts to locate her, Shy’Kemmia was never found, and her disappearance remains one of Georgia’s most heartbreaking unresolved cases.
Who Was Shy’Kemmia Pate?
Shy’Kemmia, affectionately known as “Shy Shy,” was a bright and energetic eight-year-old girl. At the time of her disappearance, she was 4 feet 4 inches tall and weighed 59 pounds. She had distinctive braided extensions in her hair, with curls framing her face and adorned with 10 to 12 gold beads. Shy’Kemmia also had a scar from prior kidney surgery and pierced ears.
Medically fragile, Shy’Kemmia faced health challenges, particularly with her kidney, bladder, and knee. Despite these difficulties, she was an active child, known for her playful spirit and her love for her family.
On the day she went missing, she was wearing white K-Swiss sneakers, a neon green Atlanta Braves jersey, and jeans, as well as a knee brace, which was a reminder of her ongoing medical issues. Her disappearance has had a lasting impact on her family and the community, and she is remembered for her bright smile and loving personality.
Investigation and Public Appeal
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) continues to work on Shy’Kemmia’s case. Her disappearance remains an open investigation, and authorities have emphasized that there is still a $20,000 reward for information leading to the resolution of the case.
The lack of solid leads or answers has frustrated both the investigators and Shy’Kemmia’s family, who are still seeking justice and closure. The community in Unadilla, which has supported the family over the years, continues to hope for answers.
Authorities urge anyone with information about Shy’Kemmia’s disappearance to come forward and help provide the missing piece to solve the mystery. The GBI Region 13 office can be reached at (478) 987-4545 for tips or information.
The Family’s Heartache
For Shy’Kemmia’s family, particularly her mother, the pain of not knowing what happened to her daughter has been unbearable. Her family describes the heartache of raising her three children without Shy’Kemmia’s joyful presence, and the unending search for answers. They continue to advocate for her case and hold onto the hope that one day, the truth will be revealed.
The community and family remember Shy’Kemmia as a loving and kind girl who deserved a bright future. Her family and local residents continue to honor her memory, never losing faith that one day, someone will come forward with the information needed to bring her home.
Ongoing Efforts for Justice
As the investigation continues, the family remains steadfast in their pursuit of justice for Shy’Kemmia. Community members have expressed their support, and the family remains hopeful that the $20,000 reward will prompt someone with information to step forward.
Anyone with knowledge of Shy’Kemmia’s disappearance is encouraged to contact the GBI Region 13 office at (478) 987-4545.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
