A security guard at a convenience store, along with several employees from a moving company, played a crucial role in locating a missing 2-year-old, Kehlani Rogers, and apprehending the suspect, Marina Noriega, 23, on Sunday.
The Avondale Police Department shared that Noriega has been charged with interfering with custody, categorized as a third-degree felony. It was noted that she had recently become acquainted with Kehlani’s family, staying at their home before the incident unfolded.
Reportedly, Kehlani’s parents mentioned that Noriega, who was transient, spent the night at their place before she allegedly took their daughter and vanished.
Details surfaced on Saturday indicating that the child was last seen late Friday night, prompting a Facebook post from authorities about her disappearance.
Thanks to the prompt actions of several individuals, the toddler was found and safely reunited with her family on Sunday.
A foreman at Camelback Moving described hearing a KwikTrip security guard on the phone stating he suspected a child was nearby.
After being alerted by the guard, the foreman felt compelled to act, thinking he couldn’t overlook the situation.
KwikTrip Security Officer C. Edmonds quickly recognized that a girl and her adult companion matched the alert’s description and asked for help from Camelback Moving team members on-site to identify the vehicle involved.
In a rapid response, employees from Camelback Moving strategically positioned their trucks to block the suspect’s vehicle, preventing it from escaping the parking lot.
The Avondale Police noted that a tip from a citizen led them to find Kehlani and Noriega at a gas station in Phoenix, where the police successfully retrieved the child and arrested Noriega without incident.
The president of Camelback Moving, Chad Olsen, commended the brave actions of his employees.
Olsen expressed immense pride in the quick thinking and teamwork displayed by community members, highlighting their dedication to communal safety. He also reminded everyone how effective the Amber Alert system can be, celebrating Kehlani’s safe return.
In a statement, a QuickTrip spokesperson praised the alertness of their staff, stating that the Guardian at one of their Phoenix locations recognized the relationship to an active Amber Alert and promptly informed the authorities. Quick response from law enforcement ensured the child’s safety and the apprehension of the suspect.
Jefferson emphasized the priority of safety for employees and customers alike, appreciating the efforts of both QuickTrip’s staff and the police.
