Kidnapped Child Found Safe in Irmo, Richland County
In a dramatic incident on Thursday, a child reported kidnapped in Richland County was later discovered safe by deputies in Irmo, South Carolina. The Richland County Sheriff’s Department (RCSD) is actively investigating the case.
The Kidnapping
According to an incident report, deputies were called to a location on the 1000 block of Farming Creek Road around 4:30 p.m. on Thursday following a report of a kidnapping. The police document revealed that a man reportedly snatched a boy from a woman and disappeared into a nearby dense forest.
The Search
Following the incident, officers from various agencies, including the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the Department of Juvenile Justice, the Lexington Police Department, and the Irmo Police Department, established a wide search perimeter.
During the search, deputies approached a shed positioned near the woods’ edge. They heard movement, and upon investigating, found the suspect with the child. The man reportedly fled upon seeing the deputy, who managed to secure the child before pursuit.
Child’s Condition
Emergency medical services evaluated the child following the incident, who was found to be unharmed and did not require hospitalization.
Investigation Ongoing
The deputies spoke with an individual whose identity has been withheld. The person reported to having had a physical altercation with another party.
After the child was rescued, deputies returned to Farming Creek Road and resumed the operation to capture the suspect, who still remains at large at this time. They spent several hours tracking, but their efforts did not lead to an apprehension.
Community Safety
Despite the ongoing investigation, the RCSD has assured the local community that this appears to be an isolated incident and there is no ongoing threat to residents. They ask anyone with information relating to the incident to come forward and assist with the investigation.
