GARNER, NC — A terrifying home invasion and kidnapping unfolded in North Carolina earlier this week when three armed suspects, including two undocumented immigrants, abducted a mother and her 11-month-old daughter after a $1 million ransom demand was rejected, according to police.
The suspects — Paola Duran Duran, 25, her brother Miguel Angel Duran Duran, 23, and Eleodoro “Leo” Estrada-Hernandez, 37 — allegedly burst into the home of Eliuth Alejandro Martinez on Monday night, duct-taped him, and fled with his wife, Alondra Michelle Benitez De Jesus, 26, and baby Grecia Salome Alejandro-Benitez.
Kidnapping and Ransom Attempt
The masked trio reportedly forced their way into the family’s home, brandishing firearms and demanding $1 million in ransom. When Martinez said he couldn’t pay, they allegedly restrained him with duct tape and kidnapped his wife and baby daughter, escaping in a black Nissan Altima.
Garner Police say the family was targeted and held at gunpoint, though the exact motive is still under investigation.
“We are thankful these victims were recovered safely,” the Garner Police Department said in a statement. “We appreciate the support of our community as we work tirelessly to arrest the suspects responsible and uncover the motive behind this crime.”
Victims Escape, Suspects Tracked Down
The abducted mother and daughter were found early Tuesday morning after they escaped and knocked on a stranger’s door, desperately seeking help. A nearby homeowner immediately called 911, and police recovered the victims.
Less than 24 hours after the incident, the Duran Duran siblings were arrested in a joint operation involving local law enforcement, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, and the FBI.
Both have been charged with multiple counts of kidnapping and are currently in custody. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has issued holds on both, confirming they are in the country illegally, according to local reports.
Manhunt for Third Suspect: Estrada-Hernandez
The third suspect, Eleodoro “Leo” Estrada-Hernandez, remains on the run. The FBI has issued a $10,000 reward for information leading to his arrest. He faces multiple charges, including kidnapping and assault.
Description of Estrada-Hernandez:
- Height: 5’4″
- Weight: Approximately 190 pounds
- Hair: Black
- Eyes: Brown
- Identifying Marks: Multiple tattoos on his forearms
Anyone with information is urged to contact:
- Garner Police Crime Stoppers: 919-834-4357
- FBI Tip Line: 1-800-CALL-FBI or tips.fbi.gov
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have not revealed whether the suspects knew the victims or if this was a random or targeted attack. The Garner Police Department, with assistance from the FBI, is still pursuing leads and working to uncover the full extent of the plot.
“This was a deeply disturbing crime involving a family and a young child,” police said. “We will not rest until all suspects are brought to justice.”