‘We want you home’: Family pleads for community to search for missing UMD student

Dilan Ashar, the missing University of Maryland student, has not been seen or heard from in nearly a week. Now, his family are pleading to the public for their help.

His family released an emotional video through UMD’s police department where they ask for anyone who has seen Ashar to call the police. In the video, three family members are seen sitting next to each other holding hands.

“If you live or work near College Park, check your doorbell, car and business cameras from early Friday and onward,” a woman in the video said. “Business owners, please post a missing person sign around your storefront.”

The family says Ashar doesn’t have his phone, wallet or any identification on him.

“Dilan, we love you so much and we hope you are safe,” the woman said. “We want you home and if you see this if anyone sees this, please call us or call 911. We are waiting for you.”

Ashar was last seen on surveillance camera walking alone near Terrapin Trail Garage early Friday morning at about 2:30 a.m. He was wearing a black UMD hooded sweatshirt, gray sweatpants and white shoes. 

Campus police say they have conducted an extensive 110-acre search, including around the Terrapin Trail Garage using K9s and drones. The search includes wooded areas, a nearby lake and the university’s golf course.

While police have continuingly searched these areas since Friday, they have not found Ashar yet.