Jacksonville, FL – June 27, 2025 — A terrifying ordeal turned into a story of bravery and community action after a 9-year-old boy was kidnapped while selling water on the roadside in Northwest Jacksonville — and rescued moments later thanks to the quick thinking and heroic intervention of a Good Samaritan. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) has arrested 22-year-old Mikaya Williams in connection with the incident.

According to JSO, the abduction occurred on Friday, June 27, when the young boy was selling water at his usual spot when Williams pulled up in her vehicle and attempted to lure him into the car. When the child refused, Williams allegedly exited the vehicle, forcibly grabbed the boy, and dragged him into her car before driving off.

A family friend of the victim who had been nearby witnessed the kidnapping as it happened. Without hesitation, the witness followed Williams’ vehicle through several streets until it stopped near West 45th Street. With immense courage, the witness approached the car, removed the child from the vehicle, and blocked the suspect in to prevent her from escaping until law enforcement arrived.

Responding patrol officers quickly took Mikaya Williams into custody at the scene. The child, thankfully, was physically unharmed and safely reunited with his family. Detectives with JSO’s Special Assault Unit immediately took over the investigation.

Williams was later booked into the Duval County Jail and charged with Kidnapping, a first-degree felony. As of this report, she remains in custody without bond.

The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office commended the witness for their courageous actions.

“This situation could have had a far more tragic outcome had it not been for the swift and selfless response of this Good Samaritan,” said a JSO spokesperson. “Their bravery ensured a child was brought home safely and a dangerous individual was taken off the streets.”

The community has responded with an outpouring of gratitude for the actions of the witness, praising them as a true hero. The incident also highlights the importance of community vigilance and quick thinking in emergency situations.

JSO is reminding the public: if you see something suspicious, don’t hesitate.

Call 911 or contact the JSO non-emergency line.

See something, say something.

Thanks to one vigilant and fearless individual, a child is home safe — and justice is underway.