Canby, Oregon – A 10-year-old girl reported abducted from her apartment overnight was found safe Wednesday, authorities said. Violet Hay was located at a residence in Oregon City around 2:45 p.m. local time, over 12 hours after she was reported taken from her home in Canby.
"I have great news. We found her safe and alive," Canby Police Chief Jose Gonzalez said during a news conference, becoming emotional. A SWAT team surrounded the residence where the girl was found and took a suspect into custody, he added.
Police responded to an apartment complex in Canby at approximately 1:47 a.m. Wednesday following the reported kidnapping. Investigators learned that an unknown male allegedly entered an apartment around 1:39 a.m., assaulted a 12-year-old child, and abducted Violet Hay. The 12-year-old was transported to a local hospital and is receiving treatment.
Chris Owen, Clackamas County chief deputy district attorney, stated that Violet was "taken by force," and her older sister was "viciously assaulted."
Police described the day's events as "very dynamic" and said the investigation is ongoing. The results of the investigation will be submitted to the district attorney's office Thursday morning for charging decisions.
During the search, investigators interviewed family members and collected surveillance footage to develop suspect and vehicle descriptions. The girl's parents are cooperating with the investigation. The search involved local and state authorities, as well as the FBI. Police Chief Gonzalez expressed gratitude to all involved agencies.
The Canby School District confirmed Violet is a student at Carus Elementary School and announced an increased police presence there for dismissal "out of an abundance of caution." The district acknowledged the news was concerning and advised families to remain calm, stay connected with their children, and report any helpful information to investigators.
Canby is located approximately 25 miles south of downtown Portland. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Oregon State Police at 1-800-442-0776, referencing Canby Police Department case number 26-021300.