In a remarkable turn of events in Aiken County, South Carolina, a truck-driving preacher, Anthony J. Moore, intervened in an alleged kidnapping attempt, capturing the incident on his dashboard camera. Moore, a pastor at Amazing Grace Ministries and a 27-year Army veteran, was driving his truck when a woman, handcuffed, ran into his path seeking help.
Divine Intervention
Moore, who humbly described himself as a ‘divine tool,’ recounted the incident as a special assignment from God. ‘Had I not been there with the dashcam, they probably wouldn’t have caught the footage that needed to be captured,’ Moore told The Associated Press.
The dramatic sequence unfolded as the woman ran in front of Moore’s truck, pursued by a man in a Cadillac. The man, later identified as Jonathan Willard, 39, of New Ellenton, was arrested on charges of kidnapping and impersonating a law enforcement officer. According to the Aiken County Sheriff’s Department, the woman was taking a walk when Willard allegedly approached her, claiming to be with the police, and forcibly detained her.
Community Response
After the woman managed to escape from the car, she approached Moore for help. Moore recounted the moment she pleaded, ‘Please help me. He’s trying to kidnap me.’ Despite Willard’s attempt to convince Moore that he was a law enforcement officer, the situation was quickly clarified as other bystanders called 911, assisted the woman, and provided her with water.
The woman, who had just graduated the day before, informed Moore that Willard had taken her phone, Social Security card, and diploma. Although Moore accompanied her back to the scene to search for her belongings, they found nothing.
Moore expressed relief upon learning of Willard’s arrest, emphasizing the importance of preventing him from attempting such acts elsewhere. The incident highlights the critical role of community vigilance and the impact of individuals like Moore, who are guided by faith and a sense of duty to protect others.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
