Latavia ‘Tay’ McGee from Myrtle Beach and Shaeed Woodard from Lake City were also kidnapped. The fourth person in the group was identified as Eric James Williams, whose North Carolina driver’s license was found at the scene.
The incident highlights the ongoing security concerns along the U.S.-Mexico border and the dangers faced by those who attempt to cross into Mexico.
Tamaulipas, the state where Matamoros is located, is considered a high-risk area for crime and kidnapping by the U.S. State Department, with the region being on the “Level 4: Do Not Travel” list.
The border city of Matamoros is known to be controlled by the Gulf Drug Cartel, and violence and migrant smuggling are common occurrences.
The U.S. State Department also advised those who must travel to the region to exercise caution and stay aware of their surroundings.
The FBI’s San Antonio Division is leading the investigation into the kidnapping. And Special Agent Oliver Rich has called on the public to provide any information they may have that could help identify the kidnappers and lead to the safe return of the at-risk American citizens.
