Former College Football Star Vanishes, Family Cites Disturbing Behavior

Hadari Darden, a 28-year-old Bay Area resident and San Jose State alum, has been missing for a week as his family expresses concern over his recent actions.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 6:52pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a dark green backpack against a pitch-black background, capturing the texture and details of the fabric in dramatic lighting to convey a sense of mystery and investigation surrounding Hadari Darden's disappearance.The sudden disappearance of a beloved college football star has left his family and community searching for answers.Berkeley Today

A former college football star named Hadari Darden has been missing for a week after last being seen at a shopping center in Daly City, California. Darden's family, including his mother Hanifea Click, have expressed worry over his recent concerning behavior, though police say there is no evidence of foul play at this time. The 28-year-old Berkeley resident and San Jose State University alum was an accomplished linebacker before graduating in 2020.

Why it matters

The disappearance of a young, accomplished athlete like Darden has shaken his local community, raising questions about his wellbeing and the potential factors behind his mysterious vanishing. As authorities continue to investigate, Darden's family and friends are desperate to find him and understand what may have led to this situation.

The details

Darden was last reported seen on April 3rd at the Skyline Plaza shopping center in Daly City, where officers spoke to him after he was reported acting suspiciously. His mother Hanifea Click said she had been concerned about his recent behavior, though he had never disappeared like this before. Darden missed a family gathering on April 4th and also failed to show up for his job at Kaiser on April 5th, prompting a widespread search by loved ones. Police say there is no evidence of foul play at this time, and detectives from neighboring jurisdictions are working together on the case.

  • Darden was last seen on Sunday, April 3rd.
  • He missed a family gathering on Sunday, April 4th.
  • He failed to show up for work at Kaiser on Monday, April 5th.

The players

Hadari Darden

A 28-year-old former college football star at San Jose State University, who has been missing for a week from his home in Berkeley, California.

Hanifea Click

Darden's mother, who has expressed concern over her son's recent disturbing behavior prior to his disappearance.

Steven Jefferson

Darden's uncle, who stated that the entire community is searching for Hadari and wants him to return home safely.

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What they’re saying

“I don't know how to feel right now. I'm angry, I'm sad, I'm hurt. I just want to find my son.”

— Hanifea Click, Darden's mother

“He has love from the whole community, from his team members, college mates, teachers, coaches. Just everybody is looking for Hadari right now. We all love him and we want him home.”

— Steven Jefferson, Darden's uncle

What’s next

Police have stated they are working with detectives from neighboring jurisdictions to investigate Darden's disappearance, and are currently searching for any evidence of foul play or clues about his whereabouts.

The takeaway

The sudden and unexplained disappearance of a beloved local athlete like Hadari Darden has left his family, friends, and community deeply concerned. As authorities continue their investigation, this case highlights the need for greater awareness and resources to address mental health issues that may contribute to troubling behavior and tragic outcomes.