The manhunt is underway for a Westmoreland County man accused of kidnapping a woman and keeping her at gunpoint in a wooded area. Shawn Prince, 29, of Scottdale, faces multiple charges, including kidnapping, simple assault, terroristic threats, and harassment. Authorities were alerted to the situation when the victim's family, having not seen her since a reported domestic incident with Prince, called for a welfare check, as reported by WPXI.
Upon the arrival at the woman’s residence, Scottdale police discovered an open door and her phone inside, but the premises were vacant. Details emerged when the woman, who had managed to make it to the police station, recounted her ordeal. She alleged that after the domestic dispute on Monday, Prince kidnapped her by threatening harm to her friend's child if she did not comply. CBS Pittsburgh detailed that she was then taken to an unknown wooded location and forced to stay overnight at gunpoint.
The victim recounted to police how she was allowed to drive when Prince apparently began to fall asleep at the wheel the following morning. Recognizing her surroundings, she was able to get to the Scottdale Police Department to seek help. It was then that Prince fled, purportedly shouting threats to burn down her house.
Scottdale police are actively seeking information on Prince's whereabouts, emphasizing the need for public assistance. The district attorney's office has encouraged anyone with knowledge of the case or the suspect’s location to reach out by calling 911 or contacting Scottdale police directly at (724) 887-8220.
