The body of a 22-year-old woman, identified as Hailey Silas from Oklahoma, was discovered on a barge in the Mississippi River near Memphis, Tennessee. Records show that Silas had made multiple 911 calls seeking help in West Memphis, Arkansas before her death. The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, who is investigating the case, has stated that they do not suspect foul play at this time, but are unsure of how Silas ended up on the barge.
Court records from Crittenden County, Arkansas reveal that Silas was taken into custody by the West Memphis police on October 15. She had repeatedly called 911 from a gas station, expressing fear and requesting a ride out of the city. Silas claimed to be experiencing a panic attack and asked to be taken to a psychiatric ward. She later pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of communicating a false alarm.
Authorities are currently reviewing any available video footage from the barge to gather more information about Silas’ presence on the vessel. The barge, owned by an Illinois-based company, reported finding the woman’s body on top of it. The Coast Guard was alerted and local authorities were notified. The barge had departed from Memphis the previous night and was headed north.
The investigation into Hailey Silas’ death is ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office at 901-222-5600 or Crime Stoppers at 901-379-7625.
