Charlotte Amber Alert update: Infant found safe; police arrest both suspects

Ten-month-old Nalaya Crew, whose abduction triggered an Amber Alert in Charlotte, has been safely located and reunited with her mother, according to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD). Police confirmed that both suspects — 19-year-old Michelle Hemphill and 23-year-old Timothy Lee Smith Jr. — have been taken into custody.

The investigation remains active and ongoing, CMPD said, noting that further updates will be released by the Public Affairs Office as new information becomes available.

Infant found after urgent search

The emergency search began after a 7:01 p.m. call on Saturday (November 16) reporting that Nalaya had been taken from the 6600 block of Monroe Road. Investigators determined she was abducted by a distant family member, Michelle Hemphill, who is homeless and “has no means to provide for the child.” Hemphill was last seen entering a blue minivan believed to be driven by her boyfriend, Timothy Lee Smith Jr.

Police initially said the child was believed to be in danger, prompting the immediate activation of an Amber Alert.

Suspects in custody

CMPD confirmed both Hemphill and Smith were apprehended following the alert. No injuries to the child were reported.

Ongoing investigation

CMPD’s Homicide Unit and Missing Persons Unit continue to investigate the circumstances of the abduction.

Victim information

Name: Nalaya Crew

Age: 10 months

Race/Sex: Black female

Height/Weight: 2'0", 20 lbs

Hair/Eyes: Black hair, brown eyes

Last Known Location: 6600 Monroe Rd

Suspects information

Michelle Hemphill

Age: 19

Race/Sex: Black female

Height/Weight: 5'6", 160 lbs

Hair/Eyes: Black hair, brown eyes

Timothy Lee Smith Jr.

Age: 23

Race/Sex: Black male

Height/Weight: 5'4", 160 lbs

Hair/Eyes: Black hair, brown eyes

CMPD thanked the public for assisting during the alert and emphasized that the case remains under review.