An off-duty North Carolina State Highway Patrol trooper helped a neighbor retrieve a stolen truck over the weekend.
A neighbor told Trooper Dolan Grady that someone had stolen a truck with two children inside around 6:54 p.m. Sunday in Wade, according to the State Highway Patrol.
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Although he was off duty, Grady jumped into his patrol car and found the truck not far away. Grady identified himself as a state trooper and held the driver until he could be turned over to the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office.
Lauren Williford, 34, was charged with theft of the truck, a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado, and second-degree kidnapping two boys younger than the age of 16.
“Our members are an integral part of the safety and security of their communities as is evident from this event,” State Highway Patrol Lt. Chris Knox said in a news release. “Both on and off duty they are viewed in their communities as trusted neighbors, friends, volunteer coaches and mentors, among other things.
“We have seen time and again that their willingness to help others in times of need is not dependent on being on duty, but merely being at the right place and time and fulfilling their calling to serve others.”
While Grady was holding Williford, another driver tried to interfere, Knox said.
That person, Anthony Nice, 38, of Wade, was charged with driving while impaired, reckless driving, possession of an open container of alcohol, no operator’s license and assault on a government official.
An arrest warrant states Nice displayed a Glock Model 19 Gen 5 9-millimeter pistol in front of Grady.
It is not clear whether or how Nice and Williford know each other.
In a statement to WRAL News, Eric and Taylor McPhail, the parents of the children, thanked everyone who jumped into action.
“We’re very thankful for the quick response from Reed and all the individuals involved in the safe return of our boys," the McPhails wrote. "The situation could have been so much worse and we’re just very thankful they’re home safe with us."