Family Seeks Global Help in Search for Missing Charleston Firefighter Wesley Fairey
JAMES ISLAND, S.C. — The family of Charleston firefighter Wesley Fairey is pleading for public help after he went missing while traveling in Bali, Indonesia. Fairey, a dedicated firefighter and outdoors enthusiast, traveled to Uluwatu on August 15 with friends and was scheduled to return to the U.S. on September 8. However, his family reports that they last heard from him on September 1.
Fairey’s sister, Kim Kearns, has reached out to news outlets and local authorities in hopes of raising awareness internationally. “From a feeling standpoint, it’s grief, fear, desperation… the more time goes by, the harder it is to locate him,” Kearns said. She has worked with hotels in the area to distribute flyers and is coordinating with the Indonesian consul general to translate missing-person materials into the local language.
The family hopes that greater publicity will generate leads. Kearns emphasized Fairey’s love for outdoor activities, including scuba diving, and said he may be exploring remote areas rather than staying in hotels.
U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham’s office confirmed that they are in contact with Fairey’s family and the State Department, monitoring developments. Meanwhile, the family has established a personal tip line at findwesleyf@gmail.com for anyone with information.
Fairey’s loved ones describe him as quiet but deeply committed to family, community, and service. As the search continues, they are urging anyone worldwide who might have seen or interacted with him to come forward.
The family remains hopeful that raising awareness internationally will bring Wesley safely home.