Flagler County, Florida, January 14, 2026
In Flagler County, Florida, a 15-year-old boy was arrested following a harrowing kidnapping incident involving an 11-year-old victim and a dangerous police chase. On December 31, local law enforcement apprehended the teenager after he fled from deputies following the rescue of the abducted child. The incident highlights growing concerns about juvenile crime and community safety as authorities push for increased vigilance and collaborative prevention initiatives among residents.
15-Year-Old Arrested Following Kidnapping Incident in Flagler County
A local community grapples with the shocking events surrounding a kidnapping and ensuing police chase.
Flagler County, Florida – The holiday season took a grim turn as local law enforcement responded to a significant incident involving a kidnapping, a police pursuit, and multiple arrests. On December 31, 2025, a 15-year-old boy was apprehended after fleeing from deputies, who had previously rescued an 11-year-old victim, abducted from St. Johns County just days earlier. The case underscores ongoing concerns regarding juvenile crime and the importance of community safety.
Law enforcement officials recognized the critical nature of the events as they unfolded. With the increased focus on public safety measures and community-supported initiatives, local leaders are advocating for a collaborative approach to prevent such incidents in the future and reinforce a culture of vigilance among residents.
Details of the Incident
On the last day of the year, Flagler County deputies initiated a traffic stop on a white Ford F-150 truck on U.S. Highway 1. The vehicle was driven by 60-year-old Darnell Hairston, a registered sex offender. Accompanying him were two juvenile passengers. During the traffic stop, deputies discovered one passenger, an 11-year-old boy, had been missing for three days and had been abducted under alarming circumstances. The child reported that he was lured to a campsite, where he faced severe threats and was forced to conceal himself in the truck while traveling. Law enforcement swiftly rescued the child and arrested Hairston on multiple charges, including resisting an officer with violence and kidnapping.
Pursuit and Arrest of the 15-Year-Old
During the confrontation, Junior Bishop, the 15-year-old passenger, fled in the truck, prompting a high-speed chase through Flagler County. The pursuit escalated quickly as Bishop drove recklessly, almost colliding with a deputy. Eventually, the vehicle crashed into a sheriff’s patrol car, leading to a crash that resulted in both vehicles rolling over. Fortunately, while two deputies sustained minor injuries, Bishop emerged from the ordeal without any harm. He was apprehended shortly after the incident and is facing several serious charges.
Background and Implications
Darnell Hairston comes with a troubling background, having previously been incarcerated for a 12-year sentence for false imprisonment. The gravity of the accusations against him calls for heightened awareness regarding community safety measures and investigations into similar cases. As authorities consider additional charges for Bishop, who may have also participated in the kidnapping, this incident raises pivotal questions about youth involvement in crime and the importance of proactive measures to support at-risk youth.
The Victim’s Condition
While the victim has been rescued, authorities have yet to provide further details about the 11-year-old’s condition. The local community is undoubtedly invested in the child’s well-being and recovery, which highlights the need for supportive resources and counseling for young victims of crime.
Conclusion and Call to Action
This incident in Flagler County serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that exist within our communities and the importance of cooperation among local law enforcement, government, and residents. As we enter a new year, it is crucial that Jacksonville’s citizens remain engaged in safety and support initiatives, ensuring that our neighborhoods become resilient and safe spaces for everyone. By supporting local effort and fostering open communication, we can strive to prevent similar scenarios and enhance the welfare of all residents.
What charges are Darnell Hairston facing?
Darnell Hairston is facing multiple charges related to the kidnapping, including resisting an officer with violence and attempting to deprive a law enforcement officer of their firearm. Authorities have not released further details about the victim’s condition.
What charges is the 15-year-old boy facing?
The 15-year-old boy, identified as Junior Bishop, is facing multiple charges, including aggravated fleeing and eluding, aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, reckless driving, driving without a license, and resisting arrest without violence. Investigators are considering additional charges, and he is being investigated as a possible co-conspirator in the kidnapping.
What is the current status of the 11-year-old victim?
Authorities have not released further details about the 11-year-old victim’s condition.
What is the background of Darnell Hairston?
Darnell Hairston is a registered sex offender who had previously been incarcerated for a 12-year sentence for false imprisonment, among other charges.
What happened during the pursuit of the 15-year-old?
During the pursuit, the 15-year-old nearly collided with a deputy, leading deputies to chase him. The pursuit resulted in a rollover crash, and the teen surrendered to deputies.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Flagler County, Florida |
| Incident Date | December 31, 2025 |
| Suspects | Darnell Hairston (60), Junior Bishop (15) |
| Victim | 11-year-old boy from St. Johns County |
| Charges Against Hairston | Resisting an officer with violence, attempting to deprive a law enforcement officer of their firearm, multiple charges related to kidnapping |
| Charges Against Bishop | Aggravated fleeing and eluding, aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, reckless driving, driving without a license, resisting arrest without violence |
| Victim’s Condition | Authorities have not released further details |
| Hairston’s Background | Registered sex offender, previously incarcerated for false imprisonment |
| Outcome | Both suspects arrested and transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility |
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