Girl abducted from Oregon apartment found safe 12 hours later

Violet Hay, a 10-year-old resident of Canby, Oregon, was found safe at 2:45 p.m. on Wednesday. She had been reported missing from her home that morning. The location of the girl is a residence in Oregon City. This is more than 12 hours after officers first responded to the scene.

Canby Police Chief Jose Gonzalez announced the discovery during a news conference. He described the situation as resolved with the girl safe and alive. A SWAT team surrounded the property where she was found. During the operation, officers took one suspect into custody. The police department stated that the girl was taken by force.

According to a press release from the Canby Police Department, the incident began at approximately 1:39 a.m. on Wednesday. An unknown male entered the apartment complex. The man assaulted a 12-year-old child and abducted Violet Hay. Officers arrived at the complex around 1:47 a.m. to handle the reported kidnapping. Chris Owen, the chief deputy district attorney for Clackamas County, noted that the 12-year-old sister was viciously assaulted.

Capt. James Murphy said the 12-year-old girl was transported to a local hospital. She is still receiving medical treatment. Murphy described the investigation as dynamic and ongoing. He said police are working to understand the full circumstances of the case. The suspect's status will be determined by the district attorney's office. Owen stated that results from the investigation will be submitted Thursday morning. A charging decision will follow that review.

Police did not accept questions during the briefing due to the active investigation. Investigators interviewed family members and reviewed surveillance footage. They worked to identify a suspect and a vehicle involved in the abduction. The girl's parents are cooperating with law enforcement. Local and state authorities, along with the FBI, participated in the search efforts. Chief Gonzalez thanked the agencies for their help in finding the girl.

The Canby School District announced an increased police presence at Carus Elementary School. Violet Hay attends this school. The extra officers were stationed at dismissal on Wednesday as a precautionary measure. The district sent a message to families urging them to stay calm and connected with their children. They asked residents to report any information that could assist investigators.

Canby is located approximately 25 miles south of downtown Portland. Residents with tips were directed to contact Oregon State Police at 1-800-442-0776. They were asked to reference case number 26-021300.