Thomas was last seen in Richmond, Virginia on April 12, 1998. She planned to drive to the University Of Richmond and visit the school's library on the day of her disappearance, to do some research for school. Her vehicle was discovered abandoned on the Willey Bridge between Henrico County and Richmond at 3:20 p. m. that day. Thomas's keys were missing, but the remainder of her personal belongings, including her wallet and driver's license, some cash, her work uniform, her paycheck, a camera, her Bible, and her sneakers were inside the car. She is considered Asian of South Indian descent.