A critical AMBER Alert has been issued across Southern California for a 1-year-old boy, Enzo Antonescu, who was abducted Sunday in the City of Industry, Los Angeles County. Authorities have identified at least one suspect, 20-year-old Dragan Antonesco, as armed and dangerous, prompting an urgent public appeal.
Details of the Abduction
The incident unfolded around noon on Sunday when, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the child was taken from a Target store located on Colima Road. Reports indicate that Dragan Antonesco produced a knife during the altercation, while two other individuals, identified as 48-year-old Viorel Ilie and 40-year-old Marioara Ilie, allegedly committed a physical assault before taking the child. The alert was officially issued by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) around 4:30 p.m. as the severity of the situation became clear.
The Missing Child and Suspects
Enzo Antonescu is described as a 1-year-old boy, approximately 1 foot 8 inches tall, weighing 22 pounds, with brown hair and green eyes. His clothing description at the time of his abduction is currently unknown. The primary suspect, Dragan Antonesco, is a 20-year-old male, standing 5 feet 9 inches tall, weighing 160 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a black shirt and black pants. Information regarding the specific relationship between Dragan Antonesco and the child has not been publicly disclosed by authorities. The involvement of Viorel Ilie and Marioara Ilie in the abduction is also a key focus of the ongoing investigation.
Law Enforcement Response and Alert Scope
The AMBER Alert, a vital tool featured prominently in breaking news across multiple platforms, has been activated to enlist the public’s assistance in locating Enzo Antonescu. The alert is currently active and covers a wide geographical area, encompassing Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties. Authorities are urging extreme caution, emphasizing that Dragan Antonesco should be considered armed and dangerous. The CHP and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department are leading the search efforts.
Vehicle Information and Potential Destination
Investigators believe the suspects are traveling in a black 2011 Toyota Sienna minivan, bearing California license plate number 9SLF463. There are indications that the group may be attempting to travel to Colorado, adding a sense of urgency to the search as they could cross state lines. Law enforcement agencies in all affected counties are on high alert and coordinating their efforts to intercept the vehicle and safely recover the child.
Community Appeal and Safety Precautions
Law enforcement officials are pleading with the public to report any sightings of the child, the suspect Dragan Antonesco, or the described Toyota Sienna immediately. Anyone who sees the child, the suspect, or the vehicle is strongly advised to call 9-1-1 without delay. For those who may have witnessed the incident or possess any other pertinent information, the Industry Sheriff’s Station can be contacted directly at 626-934-3345. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or via their website, www.p3tips.com. This developing situation is a stark reminder of the critical importance of the AMBER Alert system in critical missing person cases.
Conclusion
The swift issuance of the AMBER Alert underscores the seriousness of this abduction case. Authorities are working tirelessly to ensure Enzo Antonescu’s safe return. The community’s vigilance and cooperation are paramount in assisting law enforcement’s efforts to apprehend the suspects and bring the 1-year-old boy home. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops and more news becomes available.
