Police have found a body in the widespread search for teacher and business heiress Eliza Fletcher, after she was abducted three days ago.
The hunt for Fletcher was sparked last Friday, September 2, after the 34-year-old disappeared while out jogging close to the University of Memphis.
Authorities said that she was forced into a dark-colored SUV at around 4:30 a.m. Friday morning. Her family is said to be offering $50,000 for information that leads to her return.
As per new reports, though, police confirmed that a body has been found a mere 20 minutes from the spot where Eliza was abducted.
“At 5:07 pm, officers in the 1600 block of Victor located a deceased party,” Memphis Police announced on Twitter.
“The identity of this person and the cause of death is unconfirmed at this time. The investigation is ongoing.
“Once additional information is available, we will provide an update.”
As per an affidavit for the case, police discovered ‘physical evidence that she suffered serious injury’ at the scene of her abduction. Other reports suggested that a man had got out of the aforementioned SUV and ran “aggressively” towards Eliza, before forcing her into the passenger side.
38-year-old Cleotha Abston was arrested on Saturday after the SUV in question was found parked outside his house.
Memphis Police tweeted: “UPDATE: the vehicle of interest has been located and a male who was occupying the vehicle has been detained. Eliza Fletcher has not been located. This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information should call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.”
They added: “The individual who was detained has been officially charged in connection with the abduction of Eliza Fletcher. At this point in the investigation, Cleotha Abston, 38, has been charged with Especially Aggravated Kidnapping and Tampering with Evidence.”
The investigation into Eliza’s disappearance is yet ongoing. Police are actively searching for the 34-year-old and are asking anyone who was in the area at the time to come forward.
We hope and pray that Eliza Fletcher is found safe soon. Please, join us sending love and prayers where they’re needed at this difficult time.
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