Carlee Russell found safe, according to news sources

Carlee Russell, a 25-year-old woman who went missing two nights ago, has been founding alive, multiple news sources have confirmed.

Russell, who had family members in Alexander City, was reported missing Thursday, July 13 after a mysterious disappearance on Interstate 495. However, WSFA reported the Hoover Police Department received a 911 call at 10:45 p.m. Saturday, July 15 stating Russell had returned to her residence. 

According to AL.com, Hoover police chief Nick Derzis said Russell returned to her parents' home, where she also lives, alone. WSFA reported Russell was taken to UAB late Saturday night.

Thursday night, Russell, 25, called police in Hoover reporting a child walking alone along I-459. Russell said she was near the Galleria. After speaking with dispatch, Russell checked on the child and called a family member. 

“The family member lost contact with her, but the line remained open,” Hoover police Lt. Daniel Lowe said in a press conference.

Police were already en route. When officers arrived, they found Russell’s car and some of her belongings but no sign of her or the toddler she told dispatch about.

Although Russell went missing from Hoover, her family in Alexander City immediately went to action looking for any sign of Russell.

Toni Thomas, who is Russell's aunt and owns Fourth Quarter Sportz in Alex City, spoke with The Outlook via text message Friday, asking for continued support from the community.

“We just want the public to know that we are not giving up on the power of God to return Carlee to her family unharmed,” Thomas wrote Friday. "Although Carlee was abducted in the Hoover area, we ask that people print out the flyer that has been posted on social media and distribute it locally as well as nationwide to increase our chances of finding Carlee quickly. 

“Also, we’re asking that hotel and gas station attendants be vigilant and not hesitate to call law enforcement if they spot suspicious activity or anyone matching Carlee’s description. The public’s support has been outstanding and greatly appreciated.” 

The investigation is ongoing, and The Outlook will have updates as more become available.