LEBANON, Mo. – A 6‑week‑old baby who was reported abducted early Tuesday morning was safely recovered later that day, and two suspects have been taken into custody. The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Troop F responded quickly after Lebanon police alerted them to the possible kidnapping.
Rapid response and Amber Alert activation
At 11:55 a.m. on Nov. 10, Troop F’s communications center received a call from the Lebanon Police Department reporting that a newborn had been taken. Within three minutes, Lebanon police requested an Amber Alert, prompting state officials to mobilize resources across the region.
License‑plate cameras help locate the vehicle
Troop F personnel reviewed footage from the department’s Flock license‑plate camera system. The system recorded the suspect vehicle’s plate first in Camden County and later in Cole County on U.S. 54. A photo of the car – a white 2008 Mercury Grand Marquis – was distributed to troopers on the scene.
Vehicle stopped before Amber Alert could be issued
At 12:07 p.m., another camera captured the vehicle traveling east on U.S. 54 near Route J in Callaway County. Before the Amber Alert could be formally issued, a trooper located the car on eastbound U.S. 54 west of Fulton and performed a traffic stop.
Baby reunited with mother; suspects detained
The infant was taken to Troop F headquarters in Jefferson City, where she was examined and then reunited with her mother. The Fulton Police Department and the Callaway County Sheriff’s Office assisted the patrol throughout the operation.
Suspects identified and charged
Law enforcement identified a 17‑year‑old female as a suspect and the 18‑year‑old male driver of the vehicle. Both were taken into custody without incident. Authorities have not yet released specific charges, but the investigation remains ongoing.
Community response
Local residents expressed relief and gratitude for the swift action by state troopers and local police. The incident underscores the importance of coordinated law‑enforcement efforts and the value of modern technology, such as license‑plate cameras, in protecting our most vulnerable citizens.
Anyone with additional information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol or the Lebanon Police Department.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
