Full Breakdown
Community in Shock as Oakland Coffee Shop Owner Amy Hillyard Goes Missing
3/28/2026, 3:47:49 PM
Disappearance Details
Amy Hillyard, a 52-year-old co-owner of the popular Farley’s coffee shops in Oakland and San Francisco, has been reported missing since Wednesday, March 25, 2026. She was last seen around 2 p.m. near her home on Radnor Road in Oakland's Cleveland Heights neighborhood, close to Lake Merritt. Hillyard is described as 5 feet 4 inches tall, weighing approximately 120 pounds, with blonde hair and hazel eyes. At the time of her disappearance, she was wearing tan pants and a matching tan top. The Oakland Police Department has classified her as "at risk" due to undisclosed medical conditions.
Community Impact and Response
Hillyard's sudden disappearance has sent shockwaves through the Oakland community, where she is well-known not only for her role in the coffee business but also as the board president of the Piedmont East Bay Children's Choir. Friends, family, and customers have expressed their concern and disbelief. Nora Haron, a former director of culinary for the cafés, stated, "We want her home. She loves her family, especially her two girls." Lynn Lazarus, a regular at Farley’s, described the situation as "heartbreaking and shocking," emphasizing the café's integral role in the community.
The coffee shop issued a statement expressing their hope for Hillyard's safe return and gratitude for the community's support during this difficult time. "She has been a passionate and active member of the Oakland community for 20+ years," the statement read.
Official Statements & Community Actions
The Oakland Police Department is actively seeking assistance from the public to locate Hillyard. They have encouraged anyone with information about her whereabouts to contact the Missing Persons Unit at (510) 238-3641. The police have also requested that community members remain vigilant in neighborhoods and transit corridors where Hillyard is known, urging them to check local areas and share information within their social networks.
Criticism & Opposition
While the community has rallied around Hillyard's family, there has been some criticism regarding the speed and visibility of the police response. Some community members feel that more could be done to raise awareness quickly, given Hillyard's status as a local business owner and community leader.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Reports consistently indicate that Hillyard was last seen on March 25, 2026, but there are discrepancies regarding the exact time and location of her last sighting. Some sources mention her being seen at 2 p.m. on Radnor Road, while others provide slightly different details. The police have not disclosed specific information about her medical condition, which contributes to the urgency of the search.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Our hearts go out to Amy and her family and friends during this difficult time.” — Farley’s Coffee Shop
- “It's hard to find ice around here, and I walked in and was greeted by this lady.” — Danielle Singleton, customer
As the search for Amy Hillyard continues, the community remains hopeful for her safe return, emphasizing the importance of collective vigilance and support.
