As of Tuesday, April 22, 2025, authorities are in the midst of an extensive search operation for missing Princeton University student Lauren Blackburn. The 23yearold undergraduate was last seen on the universitys New Jersey campus on the evening of Saturday, April 19. The search has centered around Carnegie Lake, a manmade reservoir located near the campus, following the tracing of Blackburns cellphone to the area.
Blackburn, a junior majoring in English, was last spotted around 6 p.m. near the Firestone Library, wearing a yellow tshirt, a black zippered hoodie, blue jeans with torn knees, and blue flatbottom shoes. At 62 and weighing 170 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair, Blackburns description was immediately shared with the public, urging anyone with information to come forward.
By Tuesday afternoon, a multiagency search effort was underway, with rescue teams deploying sonarequipped boats, drones, and K9 units. The search, which had begun early Tuesday morning, continued throughout the day, using the nearby boat ramp for staging. Local news reports indicate that the search team has not ruled out the possibility of an accident in the water, though no official details have been confirmed.
Lauren Blackburns disappearance has sent ripples through the Princeton community, where she had been an active student. Known for her work with the student newspaper, she had written feature articles for the Daily Princetonian during the previous academic year. Blackburns absence has raised concerns not only within the university but also across the local town of Princeton.
The search has drawn attention due to the lakes history. Carnegie Lake is frequently used for the universitys rowing team practices and is located just a short distance from the Firestone Library. In 2018, a similar incident occurred when a 23yearold man, not affiliated with Princeton, drowned in the lake. The circumstances surrounding Blackburns disappearance, however, remain unclear.
Princeton University has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any potential sightings or tips. The Department of Public Safety has set up a tip line, asking individuals with information to contact them directly at 6092581000.
As the search continues, both local authorities and the university community remain hopeful for Blackburns safe return. Family and friends of the student have been left anxiously waiting for updates, while the broader Princeton community has rallied together to support the search effort.
This developing story has captured widespread attention as the search intensifies, and many are holding their breath, hoping for a positive outcome in the coming days.