Prominent tourism official reported missing

Columbia Police say the president and CEO of the South Carolina Hospitality Association has been reported missing.

Tom Sponseller (Columbia Police)

According to a press release from the department, the family of Tom Sponseller is concerned about his safety and well-being.

Police say a family member reported him missing on Saturday night after their repeated attempts to reach him were unsuccessful. The family says it’s unusual for Sponseller not to return their calls or make contact with them. He was last seen at the Hospitality Association’s downtown Columbia office around noon Saturday.

He is reported to be 6’1″ tall and weighing roughly 160 pounds. He has gray/white hair, hazel eyes, and typically wears glasses.

Sponseller is a frequent contact for reporters and state officials on tourism issues. South Carolina Radio Network has interviewed him on several different occasions. The Hospitality Association represents hotel and food service interests in South Carolina.