Three individuals from Raleigh appeared in federal court to face charges related to the kidnapping of a mother and her toddler from their home in Garner, North Carolina. Eleodoro Estrada-Hernandez, 37, along with siblings Paola Duran Duran, 25, and Miguel Duran Duran, 23, have been charged with kidnapping and aiding and abetting. The charges were revealed during their initial court appearances. Their detention hearings are set for May 12, 2025.
According to federal complaints, on April 28, 2025, Paola and Miguel entered the victims' home wearing ski masks while Hernandez was armed with a semi-automatic handgun. The trio allegedly overpowered the husband inside the house by restraining him before demanding $1 million. Paola and Miguel then reportedly took the mother and child out of the house into a vehicle. Hernandez left shortly afterward. The husband managed to free himself and alerted law enforcement with details about the suspects' car.
Following an Amber Alert issued by police, it is alleged that the kidnappers released the mother and child on a dirt road about 30 miles from their home. They found help at a nearby residence and contacted authorities safely.
The FBI apprehended Paola and Miguel on April 29; they have been held since then on state charges related to this incident. Hernandez was arrested on May 2. In court proceedings today, it was stated that all three defendants are allegedly illegally residing in the United States.
Acting United States Attorney Daniel P. Bubar commented: “These significant federal charges result from the prompt response of law enforcement and demonstrate the close partnership between all of the agencies involved.” He emphasized that prosecuting violent crimes remains a priority for his office.
Robert M. DeWitt of the FBI remarked on their swift action: “When our partners at the Garner Police Department requested FBI assistance with a kidnapping...a fast-moving and complex case unfolded.” He expressed relief at recovering the victims safely through coordinated efforts.
The accused face potential life sentences if convicted on these charges.
Daniel P. Bubar announced these developments as Acting U.S. Attorney for Eastern District of North Carolina. Agencies involved include FBI Raleigh-Durham Safe Streets Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations, Garner Police Department among others; Assistant U.S Attorney Ashley Avera is handling prosecution duties.