Woman Tries to Kidnap Boy, 9, Selling Water, But Hero Neighbor Was Watching

A 9-year-old boy selling water on a Jacksonville street is safe today thanks to the quick thinking and fearless actions of a Good Samaritan who witnessed his shocking abduction and took matters into her own hands.

The incident happened around 9 p.m. on June 27, when the young boy was working at the corner of Edgewood Avenue and Moncrief Road. That’s when, according to police, 22-year-old Mikaya Williams pulled up in her car and lured the child by falsely claiming, “Your mom said get in the car,” and, “Come here, I got your money.” She then allegedly loaded his cooler into her vehicle and forced him inside.

The terrified boy later told police he was crying, shaking, and screaming as Williams sped off with the radio turned up, trying to drown out his pleas.

Luckily, Shameika Dowell, a woman who knows the boy and his family, saw the entire thing unfold—and didn’t hesitate for a second.

“I’m like, ‘Are you serious?’” Dowell told NBC’s WJAX. “It was a think-fast moment—’Meika, move quick. You gotta get this child.’”

Dowell jumped in her car and chased after the kidnapper. When she caught up, she blocked the suspect’s car in, ran up, and kicked the passenger door until it popped open. She then pulled the boy out—along with his cooler—and got him to safety.

Police later arrested Williams, who reportedly told officers she had been on her “crazy medicine” during the incident. She’s now in jail facing a kidnapping charge and being held without bond.

The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office praised Dowell for her bravery, calling her actions “heroic” and crediting her with preventing what could have become a much darker outcome.

Williams is scheduled to appear in court on July 21.