Her appearance on Netflix’s relaunch of Unsolved Mystery led to the discovery of a little girl who her mother had kidnapped in July 2017.
Kayla Unbehaun, who was nine years old when she was abducted, was found in Asheville, North Carolina, according to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Heather Unhebhaun, her mother, was arrested in 2017 after being suspected of stealing her from South Elgin, Illinois.
Kayla was just nine years old when her non-custodial mother seized her.
According to local accounts, Kayla’s father attempted to pick up his daughter from her mother’s residence on July 5 but was unable to locate her. Heather allegedly packed her car and went away with Kayla on July 4th.
Since Kayla’s disappearance, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has posted a photograph of her as a nine-year-old as well as an age-progression shot online. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children launched a Facebook page to raise awareness, and regular articles concerning her disappearance appeared in the local press.
Kayla also featured on Netflix’s remake of Unsolved Mysteries, which resulted in her rescue.
According to WSOC-TV, a store owner who had recently seen an episode of the show noticed Kayla and alerted the cops. Police arrested Heather and placed Kayla, now 15 years old, in protective custody.
“I’m thrilled that Kayla has returned home safely. I’d want to thank the South Elgin Police Department, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and all of the law enforcement agencies who helped in her case. I’d also like to thank all of the fans of the “Bring Kayla Home” Facebook page for keeping her story alive and promoting awareness. “We ask for privacy as we reconnect and navigate this new chapter,” Kayla’s father stated in a statement.
Heather Unbehaun, Kayla’s mother, was arrested on kidnapping and child abduction charges.
Although it may take some time for everyone to catch up on missed years, I’m relieved Kayla has returned home. Now is the time to begin the mending process.