Kingsport, Tenn. — An Amber Alert was issued on Monday by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) for a 2-year-old girl who had been reported missing from Kingsport. The child, identified as Maria Linebaugh, was last seen near Bowater Drive. Authorities described her as wearing a long-sleeve shirt with a heart design, beige pants, and pink shoes at the time of her disappearance.
According to TBI officials, the child was believed to be with 35-year-old Matthew Linebaugh, who was driving a silver 2010 Ford Crown Victoria with the license plate number BRF4966. As the search for the young girl unfolded, TBI updated the public, revealing that Linebaugh had been charged with especially aggravated kidnapping and driving on a revoked license.
After hours of investigation, TBI confirmed the safe return of Maria Linebaugh. Authorities reported that the child had been found unharmed and was safely reunited with family members. In a subsequent announcement, TBI officials confirmed that Matthew Linebaugh had been taken into custody and was facing criminal charges related to the abduction.
The swift resolution to the case marked a successful outcome, with the TBI’s coordinated efforts in locating the child and securing the arrest of the suspect. As the investigation continues, authorities are focusing on the details surrounding the kidnapping and the circumstances that led to the alert.
This case highlights the importance of Amber Alerts in facilitating quick action and spreading information rapidly to ensure the safety of missing children.
