UPDATE: Missing N.C. Woman, 20, Who Was 'Dragged' into Car Has Been Found Safe
UPDATE:
On Friday afternoon, PEOPLE confirmed that Lauren Hall is safe and her alleged captor, Rosalino Duarte-Cruz, is now in custody in Wilkes County, NC. Duarte-Cruz has been charged with second degree kidnapping and assault on a female, as well as first-degree burglary, according to a spokesperson from the sheriff’s office.
Authorities are searching for a North Carolina woman who police allege was taken against her will and is likely being held hostage by a man 16 years older.
Lauren Hall, 20, has not been seen since Thursday morning, according to the Wilkes County Sheriff’s Office. Police are asking for the public’s help in tracking her down.
Officers were called to a home in Hays on Thursday morning, responding to reports of a domestic dispute.
A statement from police alleges Hall “may have” been taken “away from the house against her will” by her boyfriend, 37-year-old Rosalino Duarte-Cruz.
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According to investigators who spoke to neighbors, Duarte-Cruz allegedly “dragged” Hall across her front yard, and forced her into a car before fleeing the area.
Police say Duarte-Cruz may be driving a silver 2016 Chevrolet Camaro LT with North Carolina license plates TPD-8339.
Detectives believe he may be heading to either Winston-Salem or Yadkinville.
Authorities have already filed assault and kidnapping charges against Duarte-Cruz. A warrant has been issued for his arrest.
Anyone who may have any information concerning Hall’s or Duarte-Cruz’s whereabouts is asked to call 911 or contact the Wilkes County Sheriff’s Office at (336) 838-9111.
