The vehicle of interest in Eliza Fletcher’s abduction has been located and a male who was occupying the vehicle has been detained, the Memphis Police Department said.

Fletcher has not been located.

Her family has released the following statement. 

“We want to start by thanking everyone for their prayers and outpouring of support,” said Mike Keeney, uncle of Fletcher. “Liza has touched the hearts of many people, and it shows.”

Keeney then stated the family of Fletcher has met with police and have shared all information they know regarding the investigation.

“More than anything we want Liza returned home safely,” Keeney said. “We believe someone knows what happened, and can help.”

Keeney requested anyone with any information call law enforcement immediately. 

“The investigation into the abduction of Fletcher is still active and ongoing,” MPD posted on Twitter. “Investigators are continuing the search and following all leads.”

MPD canvassed Overton Park late Friday evening, although it is unclear whether the investigation was related to the kidnapping.

TBI, FBI join Memphis police to investigate report of missing woman near U of M

The police presence at Overton Park began at approximately 9:30 p.m. with officers leaving the park around midnight.

A heavy police presence blanketed the area of Central Avenue near the University of Memphis Friday afternoon, as authorities continued to seek leads in the kidnapping. 

Fletcher was approached by a male at approximately 4:30 a.m. Friday around Central Avenue and Zach H. Curlin Street, police said.

He appeared to leave with her in an SUV after a brief struggle. Police say the suspect was in a black GMC Terrain and headed west on Central. 

Fletcher is described as a white female, 5-foot-6, 137 pounds, with blonde hair and green eyes. At the time of her abduction, she was wearing purple shorts, a pink sports bra and tennis shoes.

The MPD Command Center was parked on Central near Zach H. Curlin and traffic was blocked to one lane on each side. The department has advised the public to avoid the area.

MPD records show 100 reported kidnappings per year in Memphis, although actual number is much lower

Yellow caution tape could be seen surrounding two campus properties near the intersection.

U of M campus police are working with MPD in the investigation. 

Both police departments are asking the public to alert them of any information regarding Fletcher’s whereabouts.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation have since joined the investigation, according to Major Karen Rudolph of MPD.

Anyone with information can call 911 or (901) 545-2677 to contact MPD or (901) 678-4357 or email police@memphis.edu to contact University police.

Officer shot by suspect released from hospital

The public can also call 528-CASH with any information that could lead to the arrest of the suspect or suspects responsible for Fletcher’s abduction.

Fletcher’s family has posted an extra $50,000 reward for anyone who has any information that can lead police to her location.

“We look forward to Eliza’s safe return and hope that this award will help police capture those who committed this crime,” her family said.