This article has been updated
The Hoover Police Department is searching for a missing woman after they said she called 911 to report a child walking along Interstate 459 South late Thursday.
Carlethia “Carlee” Nichole Russell, 25, called 911 around 9:34 p.m. and told dispatch a toddler was walking on the side of the road. Before the police arrived, Russell called a family friend to tell them what was happening. During the call, the family member reported hearing a scream and then nothing.
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When officers arrived in the area, they found Russell’s abandoned vehicle and belongings but not Russell or a child.
Hoover Police are unaware of any missing children in the area and have not received any other calls about a child walking down the interstate.
Her family believes Russell may have been abducted. They came together early Friday morning to assemble a search crew at the Hoover Met. They ask the public to check gas stations, hotels and rest stops for anything suspicious.
“Whoever abducted her may be in a Grey car,” her mother, Talitha Robinson-Russell posted on Facebook. “Her wig and hat were found at the scene so her hair will be braided down to her scalp.”
Russell’s last post on Facebook was a screenshot she shared at 12:02 p.m. that said, “My main goal is to make sure I reach my full potential. There’s a woman I plan to be. I’m not her yet. I’m still learning and growing, failing and resetting, hitting and missing. But I’ll keep working until I become who I aspire to be.”
Russell is around 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighs 150 to 160 pounds. She was last seen wearing a black shirt, black pants and white Nike shoes.
The Hoover Police Department announced $25,000 was being offered for Russell’s safe return.
Police are asking anyone with information to call Detective Brad Fountain at (205) 444-7562.
To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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