Five years later: Disappearance of schoolteacher Nadia Atwi

The family of a missing Edmonton woman is still pleading for answers, five years later.

Nadia Atwi was reported missing after not showing up for work on December 8th, 2017. The then 32-year-old mother and schoolteachers’ vehicle was later found in Rundle Park, with a single shoe left behind.

“You can’t forget her; today it’s been 1,826 days.” Nadia’s mother, Salwa Atwi, still counts the days since she last saw her daughter.

The Atwi family home is filled with images of Nadia, often pictured smiling or laughing. Salwa has taken to wearing some of her daughter’s clothing as a physical reminder while searching for answers.

"The only fact is that she is still missing, and we don't know any update."

I spoke with Nadia's mother, Salwa, this morning.

She still shares Nadia's story with everyone she meets in hopes of new tips to bring her family answers @CityNewsYEG pic.twitter.com/gSrflGZKfH

— Carly Robinson (@CarlyDRobinson) December 8, 2022

“There have been many speculations, many assumptions. But the only fact is that she is still missing, and we don’t have any updates. Just like the day we found out.”

Edmonton Police tell CityNews they are still actively investigating the case.

In a statement saying the “circumstances around her disappearance are concerning, and investigators remain open to all possibilities. Investigators continue to complete investigative steps and will follow up on any new information or leads.”

Adding, that like with all unsolved missing person cases, they know how difficult it can be for the families “our hearts go out to Nadia’s family and friends as they continue to face the loss of Nadia and many unanswered questions.”

And it’s the unknown that still pains the Atwi family.

Nadia’s disappearance garnered widespread attention in 2017, mobilizing large search parties. Five years later, that search is largely online as Salwa speaks with reporters and podcasters in hopes of spreading awareness about her daughter’s case.

Initial police reports shared that Nadia required medication, and her family sharing it was for a mental illness.

“What she faced, it’s not easy,” says Salwa. “I want the public to know, her mental illness will never ever define her.”

Salwa says she prays every morning and night for her daughter, as well as the families of other missing persons.

“December used to be our favourite month,” says Salwa. “Now it’s a reminder of the last time I said bye Nadia, see you tomorrow.”

“It’s the month of miracles. I ask to Allah, to give us the faith to face the fear. And patience to keep trying.”