The case of Chanel Maya Banks, the actress known for her role in the Netflix series "Gossip Girl," has taken a perplexing turn as her family insists that the woman found by authorities in Texas is not her. This follows a lengthy search for Banks, who reportedly left her home to pursue religious aspirations.

Dispute Erupts Over Identity of Texas Woman Claimed to Be Missing Actress Chanel Maya Banks

Family Claims Misinformation from Authorities

Chanel Maya Banks' family has strongly rejected the Los Angeles Police Department's assertion that the actress was located unharmed. Her cousin, Danielle-Tori Singh, expressed skepticism on Instagram, sharing a still image from police body cam footage. Singh stated that despite being shown the footage, they insist that the individual identified as Banks is not her. This has led to further tensions, with Singh branding the LAPD's update as "fake news" and asserting that the woman found is an "imposter." She vowed to continue distributing missing person flyers.

Dispute Erupts Over Identity of Texas Woman Claimed to Be Missing Actress Chanel Maya Banks

Actress Claims to Have Found Freedom

In a surprising statement on social media, Banks shared her own version of events, claiming that she willingly left her family due to unresolved personal issues. The actress announced her intent to be baptized by Pastor Robert Clancey, referencing a personal journey of faith. She also noted her well-being, stating, "I have met with the Police and verified that not only am I okay, but I'm finally free from my family." The actress further alluded to a spiritual calling that prompted her actions and spoke of receiving financial help from divine sources.

Dispute Erupts Over Identity of Texas Woman Claimed to Be Missing Actress Chanel Maya Banks

Disputed Communication and Missing Reports

While Banks' family reported her missing following a lack of communication since October 30, Banks clarified her situation, insisting she is not in distress. The police confirmed that she was found safe in Texas, ending the investigation with no signs of foul play. Reports indicate that her family believed she was last seen living with her husband in Playa Vista, California, before their communication ceased. Despite police conducting multiple welfare checks at her residence, they found no sign of her during those visits, though personal belongings remained, raising further questions about her circumstances.

Dispute Erupts Over Identity of Texas Woman Claimed to Be Missing Actress Chanel Maya Banks

Controversy Over GoFundMe Efforts

In her statement, Banks warned against contributing to any crowdfunding efforts claiming she is missing, emphasizing, "I AM NOT MISSING." This remark has added another layer of complexity to a case that continues to spark public interest and debate regarding the well-being of the actress and the dynamics within her family.

Dispute Erupts Over Identity of Texas Woman Claimed to Be Missing Actress Chanel Maya Banks
Dispute Erupts Over Identity of Texas Woman Claimed to Be Missing Actress Chanel Maya Banks