COLLEGE PARK, Md. — The mother of missing University of Maryland student Dilan Shaan Ashar is making an urgent appeal for help as campus police continue searching for her 22-year-old son.
Binita Ashar, speaking alongside Dilan’s father and brother in a recorded message posted Tuesday on the UMD police YouTube channel, described him as compassionate and considerate. “Dilan is a kind, thoughtful young man who cares deeply about people. He loves sports and he loves to cook,” she said.
She said Dilan left without his phone, wallet or identification, making public tips especially important. “This is why we need people to call if you have information,” she said.
University of Maryland police have classified the case as a “critical missing person” investigation.
“We need your help in continuing to look for Dilan,” police said in a statement. “Every bit of information can help.”
Ashar was last seen around 2:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 2, at the Terrapin Trail Garage near the Xfinity Center in College Park, Maryland, according to his mother. He is 6 feet 2 inches tall, has dark hair and was last seen wearing a black University of Maryland sweatshirt, gray sweatpants and white shoes.
Binita Ashar urged residents, employees and businesses in the College Park area to review security footage. “If you live or work near College Park, please check your doorbell, car, and business cameras from early Friday morning and onward,” she said.
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Police released two images of Ashar, including surveillance footage showing him leaving his residence at approximately 2 a.m. on the day he disappeared.
Despite extensive efforts, investigators have not located him. “All searches thus far, unfortunately, have yielded no results. We will continue to re-check these areas and more,” police said Tuesday.
Authorities have searched roughly 110 acres surrounding the Terrapin Trail Garage with the help of drones, cadaver dogs and dozens of first responders. The operation has included the university golf course, parking garages, wooded areas, Lake Artemesia and nearby parks, police said.
UMD police did not immediately respond to ABC News’ request for an update Wednesday.
“Dilan, we love you so much, and we hope you are safe. We want you home,” his mother said. “We are waiting for you.”
Anyone with information about Ashar’s whereabouts is asked to contact UMD police at 301-405-3555.
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