Authorities in Hoover, Alabama are examining traffic camera footage and other evidence related to the disappearance of Carlethia "Carlee" Nichole Russell. The 25-year-old vanished on July 13th after calling 911 to report a toddler walking alongside Interstate 459. Russell also contacted a family member, mentioning the child, before the call disconnected but remained open.
Upon arrival, officers discovered Russell's vehicle and personal effects, but neither she nor a child were present. A witness reported seeing a light-skinned male near Russell's car. The traffic camera footage shows Russell's vehicle pulling over with hazard lights flashing.
Russell's mother recounted hearing her daughter scream before the phone line went silent. Prior to the 911 call, Russell had left her workplace and likely picked up food from a restaurant. She was found safe and returned home on July 15th around 10:45 p.m. and was briefly hospitalized.
However, the Hoover Police Department has revealed they haven't found any evidence to corroborate the sighting of a child on the interstate. They also noted a lack of other calls about a child, despite heavy traffic in the area. Investigators also discovered that Russell purchased snacks at a Target store after picking up food, but these items were not in her car when police arrived at the scene of her disappearance.
Surveillance video shows Russell walking alone near her home shortly before she reappeared at her parents' residence.
Law enforcement is currently analyzing the collected evidence to piece together the events of the 49 hours Russell was missing, as well as her actions leading up to her disappearance. The owner of Woodhouse Spa Birmingham, where Russell was employed, has confirmed cooperating with the investigation.
A press conference is scheduled for Wednesday to provide further updates on the case.
