Catlton L. Edmondson, 29, was reported missing around January 19, 2018, after his family in Valdese, North Carolina, received ransom demands following alarming phone calls. Investigators say Edmondson was kidnapped in North Carolina, taken across state lines and left in a remote, wooded area near Trade in Johnson County, Tennessee.

Authorities allege Edmondson was assaulted; cellphone video reportedly shows a severe beating and helped detectives identify the location in Trade. Multiple people were arrested as the probe developed, including Robert Leroy Littleton III, charged with kidnapping, and LeighKathrine Mina, charged with first-degree kidnapping. Charges reported against others included conspiracy to commit especially aggravated kidnapping, and investigators tied the incident to a drug deal dispute over money.

Extensive searches of the rugged terrain, employing cadaver dogs among other resources, have not located Edmondson. His mother expressed both fear that he might never be found and hope that he is still alive and will be returned home. If anyone has information about Edmondson’s whereabouts or the events around January 2018, please share what is known.