Charlotte, NC – A heartbreaking story has emerged from Charlotte, North Carolina, where a young mother was found dead weeks after going missing during what was supposed to be a joyful birthday trip. Ta’Haley Payton, just 22 years old, disappeared after reportedly telling her family she didn’t feel safe.
Ta’Haley’s family first reported her missing to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department on November 28. However, she hadn’t been seen since November 20. Concern for her safety began when she and her boyfriend, who is also the father of their 6-month-old daughter, traveled from Greenville, South Carolina, to Charlotte to celebrate her birthday.
On November 20, the day she vanished, Ta’Haley’s boyfriend called her mother, saying he was heading back to South Carolina without her. Around the same time, Ta’Haley called her own mother, expressing that she didn’t feel safe. She mentioned she was planning to walk to a nearby Burger King, but her mother advised her to take an Uber or Lyft instead. Later, Ta’Haley told her family that a friend was coming to pick her up, but that ride never happened.
The situation reportedly escalated after Ta’Haley and her boyfriend had an argument. Her boyfriend allegedly kicked her out of the car and left Charlotte, returning to South Carolina without her. Adding to the distressing details, it’s been reported that Ta’Haley sought medical help for postpartum depression during the trip.
Weeks later, on December 9, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police found Ta’Haley’s body in the 1100 block of Baxter Street. Authorities have not yet disclosed whether they suspect foul play or if her death is being investigated as a homicide.
This tragedy leaves many questions unanswered and a family grieving the loss of a young mother gone far too soon.
