Support for LAist comes from
We Explain L.A.
Stay Connected

Share This

This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.

This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.

News

Amber Alert Issued For Toddler Kidnapped By Man Who Sexually Assaulted Mother [UPDATE]

palmdale_amber_alert.jpg
Support your source for local news!
Today, put a dollar value on the trustworthy reporting you rely on all year long. The local news you read here every day is crafted for you, but right now, we need your help to keep it going. In these uncertain times, your support is even more important. We can't hold those in power accountable and uplift voices from the community without your partnership. Thank you.

Update: See below

A toddler was kidnapped from a Palmdale motel, prompting authorities to issue an Amber Alert in Southern California.

Around 3 a.m., early Saturday morning, 13-month old Penelope Rodriguez was kidnapped from a Motel 6 in Palmdale. According to KTLA, the alleged kidnapper, Jonathan Holmes, sexually assaulted the child's mother before driving off with the child. Holmes is described as a 38-year-old black man, about 5'9" and weighing 170 pounds.

Holmes was staying with the child and her mother at the motel, but is not the father. His exact relationship with them is unclear.

Support for LAist comes from

Sheriff's deputies say the child was last seen wearing a yellow onesie and was taken away in a brown 2001 BMW four-door sedan with the license plate 7EVA549.

Related: What's Up With That Amber Alert You Got

Update, 3:30 p.m.: A deputy at the Lancaster Sheriff's station has confirmed to LAist that the 13-month old toddler has been found safe. ABC 7 is reporting that two men have been arrested in connection with the case, and City News Service is saying that the suspect named by authorities this morning, Jonathan Holmes, is cooperating with authorities and may not have committed any crimes.

Most Read