In a somber resolution to a frantic search, the Columbus Police Department has confirmed the discovery of a body identified by relatives as 5-year-old Darnell Taylor, marking a tragic end to the search for the missing child.
Pammy Maye, the woman accused of abducting Taylor and the trigger for the issuance of an Amber Alert, was apprehended in Brooklyn, Cleveland. Maye entered Cenveo, an envelope manufacturing company, in a distressed state, barefoot, around 9 p.m. on Thursday. Upon her request, employees attempted to contact her husband, to no avail.
Displaying reluctance to reveal her identity to Cenveo staff or the police dispatcher, Maye was eventually identified by responding officers as the individual at the center of the Amber Alert.
Following her detainment, Maye was transported to a local hospital, where she disclosed information regarding Taylor’s whereabouts to law enforcement authorities.
The discovery of Taylor’s body in a Columbus sewage drain in the early hours of Friday has pivoted the investigation towards a homicide inquiry. The Franklin County Coroner’s Office received confirmation of the body’s identity from Taylor’s biological family by the afternoon of the same day, leading to the cancellation of the Amber Alert.
The proximity of the events to local residents has instilled a sense of shock and caution, with neighbor Lynda Santa expressing her disbelief and considering additional security measures in light of the disturbing developments.
Court documents reveal that the situation escalated following a distress call made by Maye’s husband, alleging she had inflicted harm on Taylor, an action she attempted to conceal from authorities.
The issuance of the Amber Alert was based on the belief that Taylor was in imminent danger, a fear that tragically materialized. The vehicle linked to Maye was later found deserted in Brooklyn, with a citizen’s tip playing a crucial role in Maye’s apprehension.
The Brooklyn Police Department has expressed gratitude towards the collaborative efforts of various law enforcement agencies and the community in the investigation.
Although the outcome is heartbreakingly not what was hoped for, condolences have been extended to Taylor’s family. The ongoing cooperation between Brooklyn Police Department and Columbus Police Department underscores the commitment to thoroughly investigate the circumstances leading to this tragic event.