93-year-old woman found home safe after kidnap scare

A 93-year-old woman reported missing on Thursday has been found safe, according to the Hoke County Sheriff's Office.

2026-06-19

Catherine Peterkin lives with a family member who serves as her guardian. That person told deputies Peterkin went to run errands with another family member Thursday and did not return as expected.

She was reported missing Thursday night, and the Hoke County Sheriff's Office asked the public to be on the lookout for her Friday morning.

By 2:30 p.m. Friday, Peterkin was found in Wake County with a relative, Mary Chandler. Chandler will face a charge of second-degree kidnapping. She was taken to jail in Knightdale. 

Peterkin was not harmed. Her guardian was able to pick her up and take her home.