Jawara was living in a group home on north Miro Street in New Orleans, Louisiana at the time of his disappearance. On June 4, 1999, he and the other residents went to get a routine checkup. They got on the bus together. When the bus stopped at a clinic, the other group home residents got off and Jawara remained on the bus. He waved at them as the bus pulled away. He has never been heard from again.

Jawara began hearing voices when he was about 18 years old. He believed God spoke to him and he was resistant to taking medication for his condition. He seemed to do well after being placed in the group home, however. Jawara may still be in the New Orleans area and he may be homeless. He is one of five children and enjoys writing poetry. His case remains unsolved.