Two Arrested After Violent Carjacking and Child Kidnapping on Newbern Avenue, Raleigh – Raleigh police have arrested two individuals in connection with a harrowing carjacking and kidnapping incident that took place overnight on Newbern Avenue. The suspects, identified as Mateo Domingo Medina and Chardazha Naimon Alston, are accused of forcibly taking a woman’s vehicle at gunpoint and abducting two young children who were inside at the time.
According to law enforcement officials, the incident occurred late Wednesday night when Medina and Alston allegedly approached the female victim as she was parked along Newbern Avenue. The suspects, armed and reportedly aggressive, ordered the woman out of her vehicle. Investigators say the confrontation involved threats, intimidation, and a display of force that left the victim fearing for her life.
During the robbery, two children who were inside the vehicle were also taken against their will, escalating the crime from a carjacking to a kidnapping. Authorities have not yet released the ages of the children but confirmed that the victims were minors and related to the female driver.
The abduction triggered an urgent police response. Raleigh Police Department immediately dispatched patrol officers, detectives, and special operations teams to track the stolen vehicle and ensure the safety of the children. Nearby law enforcement agencies were also alerted, and a coordinated search effort was launched throughout the night.
After several hours of investigation and surveillance, officers were able to locate the stolen vehicle and apprehend the suspects without further harm to the victims. The two children were recovered safely and reunited with their family. Officials have praised the swift and coordinated response that led to the resolution of the case.
“This was an extremely dangerous situation that could have ended much worse,” a Raleigh Police Department spokesperson stated. “Thanks to the quick action of our officers and the cooperation of the community, we were able to bring the children home safely and take the suspects into custody.”
Medina and Alston are currently facing multiple felony charges, including armed robbery, motor vehicle theft, kidnapping, and child endangerment. Both remain in custody as the investigation continues, and police have indicated that additional charges could follow as evidence is reviewed.
The incident has left many in the community shaken. Residents expressed both relief that the children were found unharmed and deep concern about the rise in violent crime. Several community members have called for increased patrols and stronger safety measures in high-traffic areas like Newbern Avenue, which has seen a number of recent criminal incidents.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the case to come forward, stressing that public cooperation is critical in preventing and solving crimes of this nature.
“This community looks out for one another,” the police spokesperson added. “We need that vigilance and partnership to keep everyone safe.”
The Raleigh Police Department has assured residents that the case will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, emphasizing that violent acts—especially those involving children—will not be tolerated.