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Missing Toddler Found Safe; Suspect Arrested in Kidnapping

10/1/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Amber Alert for 2-year-old Christopher Cooper was canceled after he was found safe.
Authorities say he was found asleep in a white 2011 GMC Yukon in Kentwood, Louisiana, with suspect James Mercier, 49.
Mercier was arrested on aggravated kidnapping charges; a tip around 5:45 a.m. on October 1 led to the recovery; Cooper is being evaluated at a hospital.

History

Historical Context

The AMBER Alert system was established in 2002 in the U.S. to quickly inform the public about child abductions, following the tragic case of Amber Hagerman, who was murdered in 1996. Since its inception, over 1,000 children have been recovered through this initiative, highlighting the critical role of community involvement and law enforcement collaboration in safeguarding vulnerable children.

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Story summary

The Amber Alert for 2-year-old Christopher Cooper was canceled after he was found safe.
Authorities say he was found asleep in a white 2011 GMC Yukon in Kentwood, Louisiana, with suspect James Mercier, 49.
Mercier was arrested on aggravated kidnapping charges; a tip around 5:45 a.m. on October 1 led to the recovery; Cooper is being evaluated at a hospital.

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