The city of Charlotte is grappling with the tragic news of Ta'Haley Payton, a 22-year-old woman whose body was discovered earlier this week, putting an end to her disappearance that began in late November. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department confirmed that the South Carolina native was found dead along Baxter Street near Kenilworth Avenue, just south of Uptown Charlotte, on Monday, WCNC reports. Payton was last seen in the 700 block of Charlottetowne Avenue on November 27, and her family had expressed concerns for her well-being.

WBTV reveals that Payton's body was found outside in an open area near Pearl Street Park, adjacent to a local creek, which invoked a death investigation by local authorities. Despite early indications by police categorizing the incident as a "sudden/natural death investigation," details surrounding the circumstances of Payton's death remain limited. The Mecklenburg County Medical Examiner's Office has confirmed the death but has yet to disclose a cause, stating it is "pending."

Adding to the narrative, family members have provided some context to Payton's visit to Charlotte, stating that she originally came to the city with her boyfriend to celebrate her birthday. According to WSOCTV, Payton, hailing from Greenville, South Carolina, was reported missing after last being seen on November 20. As the investigation proceeds, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has not disclosed if Payton was last seen with anyone or where she might have traveled to following her birthday festivities.

The local community and Payton's family are in a state of mourning as they wait for answers in this heartbreaking incident. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department is urging the public to come forward with any information that could assist in the ongoing investigation. Tips can be shared by calling (704) 432-TIPS, and anonymous information can be submitted to CrimeStoppers online or by calling (704) 334-1600, as urged in an announcement provided by WCNC.