**9-Year-Old Boy Kidnapped While Selling Water in Jacksonville Rescued by Good Samaritan; Suspect Arrested**

Jacksonville, FL – June 27, 2025 — A heart-stopping moment in Northwest Jacksonville has become a tale of extraordinary bravery and quick community response after a 9-year-old boy was kidnapped while selling bottled water along a roadside — only to be rescued shortly afterward by a courageous Good Samaritan. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) confirmed that 22-year-old Mikaya Williams has been arrested in connection with the incident and is facing multiple felony charges, including kidnapping and child endangerment.

The Incident

According to authorities, the young boy had been stationed at the corner of Lem Turner Road and Edgewood Avenue, a common spot where local children often set up makeshift stands to earn pocket money during the summer. Witnesses reported that around 12:15 p.m., a woman — later identified as Williams — pulled up in a dark-colored sedan, exited her vehicle, and engaged the child in brief conversation before allegedly grabbing him and forcing him into the car.

The incident unfolded in broad daylight in front of several stunned bystanders, one of whom, a local father named Raymond “Ray” Jefferson, reacted swiftly and fearlessly.

A Heroic Rescue

Jefferson, who had just pulled into a nearby gas station, heard the commotion and quickly pieced together what was happening. Surveillance footage later showed him racing across the lot and jumping into his own vehicle to pursue the suspect. Following her for approximately two blocks, Jefferson managed to cut the suspect off near a residential cul-de-sac and confronted her, creating enough of a distraction and commotion to allow the frightened child to flee from the backseat and run into the arms of another neighbor who had emerged after hearing the screams.

JSO officers arrived within minutes and arrested Mikaya Williams without incident. The child was evaluated by paramedics and reunited with his family shortly after. Authorities say he sustained no physical injuries but is being monitored for emotional trauma.

Charges and Ongoing Investigation

Williams is currently being held without bond at the Duval County Jail. She faces charges of:

• Kidnapping a minor under the age of 13

• False imprisonment

• Child endangerment

• Attempted aggravated assault

JSO has not released a motive at this time, though officials confirmed that Williams and the boy did not know each other. Detectives are continuing their investigation and reviewing surveillance video and eyewitness accounts.

Community Reaction

News of the attempted kidnapping and subsequent rescue has rippled throughout Jacksonville, igniting conversations around child safety, community vigilance, and heroism. Many residents are calling for recognition of Raymond Jefferson’s selfless actions, with some even suggesting a community award in his honor.

“I just did what I hoped someone would do for my kid,” Jefferson told reporters modestly. “That little boy was terrified. I just thank God he’s safe.”

City leaders and law enforcement officials have echoed praise for Jefferson and the community members who helped protect the child. “This could have ended in tragedy,” said Sheriff T.K. Waters. “But thanks to the quick actions of an alert and brave citizen, a child was brought home safely. This is what community looks like.”

A Wake-Up Call

The incident has served as a stark reminder to parents and guardians to stay vigilant, especially during summer months when children may be spending more time outside. Local officials are also urging residents to report suspicious behavior and to educate children on safety strategies when approached by strangers.

As the investigation continues, the Jacksonville community remains shaken, but grateful — for courage, for compassion, and for a young boy’s safe return home.