Full Breakdown
Amber Alert Issued for Missing 10-Month-Old Nalaya Crew
11/17/2025, 1:41:53 AM
Incident Overview
On Saturday evening, November 16, 2025, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) issued an Amber Alert for 10-month-old Nalaya Crew, who was reported missing after being allegedly abducted by a distant family member, Michelle Hemphill, 19, and her boyfriend, Timothy Lee Smith Jr., 23. The alert was triggered at 7:01 p.m. after family members expressed concerns for Nalaya's safety, citing Hemphill's homelessness and lack of resources to care for the infant.
Search and Recovery
The Amber Alert prompted an immediate search for Nalaya, who was last seen in a blue minivan driven by Smith near the 6600 block of Monroe Road in southeast Charlotte. Descriptions provided by authorities indicated that Nalaya is approximately 2 feet tall, weighs 20 pounds, and has black hair and brown eyes. Hemphill and Smith were also described as having similar physical characteristics.
By 8:20 a.m. on Sunday, November 17, CMPD confirmed that Nalaya had been located safely, and both suspects were arrested. However, police have not disclosed the specific charges against Hemphill and Smith or the circumstances surrounding Nalaya's recovery.
Official Statements & Responses
The North Carolina Center for Missing Persons announced the cancellation of the Amber Alert shortly after Nalaya was found. CMPD has not released further details regarding the location or timing of Nalaya's recovery. The police emphasized the importance of community vigilance during the search, urging anyone with information to contact law enforcement.
Criticism & Opposition
While the immediate outcome was positive with Nalaya's safe recovery, concerns have been raised regarding the circumstances that led to her abduction. Family members had previously expressed fears about Hemphill's ability to care for the child, highlighting systemic issues related to homelessness and child welfare.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There is a lack of detailed information regarding the exact location and conditions under which Nalaya was found. Additionally, the specific charges against Hemphill and Smith remain undisclosed, leaving gaps in the narrative surrounding the incident.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The family told police that the child was believed to be in danger with Hemphill, who is allegedly unhoused and has no means to provide for the child.” — CMPD Official
- “If you see Nalaya or know something that could help investigators, call 911 immediately.” — Amber Alert Announcement
This incident underscores the critical role of community awareness and law enforcement in ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals, particularly children.
