HOOVER, ALABAMA: Carlee Russell has currently been one of the most searched names on the internet after her apparent missing story came to light. The 25-year-old nursing student suddenly disappeared on July 13 before returning home two days later. Russell was reportedly on her way home from a cafe when she stopped on Alabama Interstate 459 to assist a toddler she claimed to have seen. Russell who made a 911 call to report the child, mysteriously disappeared before reaching her home on July 17. However, Russell's boyfriend, Thomar Latrell Simmons, alleges that throughout the time she was missing, she was 'fighting for her life' after being kidnapped.
But a statement by Hoover (AL) Police Department has dismissed her claim of witnessing a toddler. It said, “The Hoover Police Department has not located any evidence of a toddler walking down the interstate, nor did we receive any additional calls about a toddler walking down the interstate, despite numerous vehicles passing through that area as depicted by the traffic camera surveillance video.”
Despite this, her parents have supported her story as her mother, Talitha Robinson-Russell, posted on Facebook, “Just as we made a commitment to not entertain negative thoughts during the time our daughter was missing, we surely will not entertain negative thoughts/statements, unvalidated opinions, or sheer ignorance at such a joyous time. We pray that those that doubt God's power, miracles, and the power of faith will be encouraged to draw closer to Him and learn the power of positive affirmations and unwavering faith.”
Did Carlee Russell go missing to seek attention?
According to reports on July 17, Hoover police are still looking into Russell's disappearance and safe return while examining a large amount of evidence that was gathered during the period. Meanwhile, Russell's social media activity seems to paint a different picture of her. Most of her post hints at her dissatisfaction with her work and love life. One of the posts Russell tweeted days before she was allegedly kidnapped read, “My job is really starting to get on my dang nerves🙄.” Another tweet from last month was, “I hate when people don’t answer my phone calls.”
While one tweet read, “Acting nonchalant but expecting people to think you care about them?” A tweet made one day after read, “N-word will risk everything for a h**, stripper, etc. pitiful." Seemingly hinting at her relationship, one tweet mentioned, “You think you have a bond with someone until they show you you never did.”
‘Only Carlee can provide those answers’
Meanwhile, the Daily Mail has reported that Russell has been protected by her parents, who are not letting cops question her. Chief Nick Derzis said, “We have asked to interview Carlee a second time but have not been granted that request. As you can see, there are many questions left to be answered but only Carlee can provide those answers. The family stated to us right now, in her mental state, because of trauma, she is not ready to talk. That is what we've been told.”
Besides, on Facebook, Talitha added, “To our media friends, I promise we will speak with you and give a general statement in the near future as this is an ongoing investigation. We consider the media outlets that cared enough to share this story, law enforcement agencies, special investigators, city leaders to be our friends and we will be respectful of all. For everyone that has messaged or called to rejoice with us, we are so grateful for your concern!”
