On August 19, 2023, Jana Leigh Stines Manasco, a 31-year-old woman from Monarch Mill in Union County, South Carolina, vanished without a trace. Nearly two years have passed and despite countless efforts from her family, local authorities, and the community, Jana is still missing.
The Day She Disappeared
Jana Manasco was more than just another face on a missing person flyer. She was described as fun, kind-hearted and full of life. Friends and family say she loved animals, especially her dogs and she had big dreams of becoming a veterinarian. Jana also played competitive softball and enjoyed both the beach and the mountains.
“She was respectful, down-to-earth, and always willing to help anyone” said a family friend who knew her since childhood. She also had a son who meant the world to her. Now her family and loved ones are left with heartbreak, hoping every day for her safe return.
On August 19, 2023, Jana was last seen in her hometown of Monarch Mill. After that, she simply vanished. No texts. No phone calls. No confirmed sightings.
Authorities from the Union County Sheriff’s Office began an immediate investigation. But even after following every lead, they were left with no solid clues to explain where Jana went or what happened to her—the case quickly turned cold.
She was reported to be 5 feet 4 inches tall, about 151 pounds with hazel eyes and brown hair. Investigators also mentioned that she might go by the last name “Stines,” which could help in the search.
A Complicated Search
Some reports mention that Jana had struggled with substance use after suffering an injury. Investigators have not said this was related to her disappearance but it has been part of the overall investigation.
Still nothing definite has been found. There was no sign of a struggle. No confirmed contact. And no obvious reason why she would have left without letting anyone know.
After Jana went missing, her family and neighbors came together to keep her story alive. Candlelight vigils were held, flyers were posted. People started using social media to raise awareness. A group called Voices of the Voiceless even began sharing her case along with other unsolved cases in Union County, hoping to get attention from the media and authorities.
Jana’s father offered a cash reward for any information that might help bring her home. Donations were also collected to fund search efforts and new technology to help investigators.
According to Fits News, Jana’s family is doing everything they can to keep the search alive. “We want justice for Jana and all the victims in Union County who deserve to be heard,” said one supporter from Voices of the Voiceless.
Law Enforcement Response
The Union County Sheriff’s Office remains in charge of the case. Officers have asked the public to report anything that might help—even something small. As stated by the Missing Persons Information Alliance (MPIA) “Small details can be crucial in missing persons cases.”
So far the leads haven’t gone far. In the early weeks, there were even rumors that Jana’s case might be connected to a suspected serial killer active in Long Island. But that theory didn’t go anywhere. There was no confirmed link between the two cases or any proof pointing toward foul play.
As of now, law enforcement has not named any suspects or revealed any clear theory about what may have happened to Jana.
Today, Jana Manasco is still listed as an endangered missing person. Her family still hopes to find her, or at least to learn what happened. Her son who was young when she disappeared, continues to grow up with questions no child should have to ask.
The investigation remains open. Officers, family members and groups like Voices of the Voiceless have not given up. They want justice. They want answers. Most of all, they want Jana home.
How You Can Help
Anyone with information about Jana Leigh Stines Manasco is urged to contact the Union County Sheriff’s Office. Even the smallest tip could be the one that solves this mystery.
Until then, her photo stays posted. Her name stays spoken. And her story remains one of the many unsolved cases that need to be heard.
“We want justice for Jana and all the victims in Union County who deserve to be heard.” — Voices of the Voiceless.
