The initial calls indicated the suspect vehicle was being pursued by another vehicle driven by the child’s father who is the custodial parent. The non-law enforcement involved pursuit came to a conclusion on I-40 near Exit 24, when the vehicle driven by the abducted child’s father blocked the path of the suspect vehicle, resulting in the entire interstate being temporarily shut down. 

A third vehicle being driven by another family member was also involved in the incident. The driver of the third vehicle admitted to discharging a firearm into the air at the scene in what was described as a warning shot. No one was injured as a result of the firearm being discharged.

The three adult females in the suspect vehicle were taken into custody at the scene and were charged with Abduction of a Child N.C.G.S 14-41. The abduction of a child investigation continues with the possibility of additional charges being filed in the future. 

All three suspects are being held in the Haywood County Detention Center under a $20,000 secured bond. The involved child was unharmed in the incident and was returned to family.