JACKSONVILLE, FL – A quick-thinking bystander is being hailed as a hero in Jacksonville after she thwarted the kidnapping of a 9-year-old boy selling water at a busy intersection, authorities said.

The incident happened around 9 p.m. Thursday near Edgewood Avenue and Moncrief Road, where police say the child was approached by a woman in her vehicle. According to officers, the woman urged the boy to get into her car, falsely claiming his mother had sent her. She allegedly repeated, “Get in the car, your mom said get in the car,” before forcibly placing his cooler in her trunk and pushing the child inside.

Inside the moving car, the young boy was visibly distraught, describing himself as crying and shaking during the ordeal. The suspect reportedly turned up the car stereo and sped away from the scene as the boy cried for help.

A woman familiar with the family witnessed the abduction unfold. Reacting instantly, she jumped into her vehicle and gave chase to the suspect’s car. After a brief pursuit, she was able to corner the suspected kidnapper and immediately approached her vehicle. Without hesitation, the bystander forcefully opened the passenger door, pulling the boy and his belongings to safety as the suspect remained inside the vehicle.

Police arrived shortly after and detained the alleged kidnapper, identified as Mikaya Williams, 22. Officers said Williams claimed she was on medication at the time of the incident.

Thanks to the bystander’s prompt intervention, the boy was returned unharmed to his family. Law enforcement publicly commended her courageous actions, noting her efforts likely prevented a far more tragic outcome.

Williams was booked into the Jacksonville jail on kidnapping charges. She is currently being held without bond and is scheduled to appear in court July 21.

Authorities said the case highlights the importance of vigilance and swift action by community members in protecting children. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office is urging parents and guardians to remind children not to approach strangers and to report suspicious activity immediately.

The investigation is ongoing, and police have not said whether Williams will face further charges. No other injuries were reported as a result of the incident.