MOUNDSVILLE, WV (LOOTPRESS) – An 11-year-old girl was safely located Tuesday evening after law enforcement agencies responded to a report of a possible child abduction at the Walmart in Moundsville.
According to the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to the store around 5:24 p.m. after the child, who had reportedly been taken from her home in another state by an adult male, messaged her family indicating she had been abducted.
Sheriff Mike Dougherty said the Sheriff’s Office worked in coordination with the West Virginia State Police, Moundsville Police Department, and the FBI to secure the area.
The Walmart store was placed on lockdown while officers searched for the child.
Inside the store, officers located the girl along with an adult woman. The woman was detained and questioned, leading investigators to the location of a male suspect. The suspect was later taken into custody for questioning.
Authorities said the investigation remains active, and no further details are being released at this time to protect the victim’s privacy and the integrity of the case.
Sheriff Dougherty commended the quick response and cooperation among agencies, saying their coordinated effort ensured the child’s safety and the swift apprehension of the suspect.
Further updates will be released as the investigation continues.
