California Mother Reunited With Family After Alleged Kidnapping
SAN FRANCISCO (CBSNewYork) -- A missing California mother has been found safe and sound. The 34-year-old woman was back with her family Friday, after allegedly being abducted while jogging near her home.
Sherri Papini was taken to a hospital to be treated for minor injuries and reunited with her husband, after her alleged captors let her go Thursday, about 100 miles from her home.
"We're looking for a dark-colored SUV with two Hispanic females," a law enforcement official said.
Papini also told police the two females were armed with a handgun. So far there was no word on a possible motive, or where she may have been held all this time.
Her sister said it's been a trying three weeks for the family.
"It's been a range of emotions, sadness, anger, right now it's just joy. Lots and lots of joy that she is here with us," her sister said.
Earlier this month, Keith Papini made an emotional appeal for his wife's safe return after he said she went for a jog and never came home. He reported her missing when she didn't pick up their children from daycare.
"Bring her home, just bring her home, bring her home safe," he said.
Investigators and volunteers spent weeks searching for Papini, and a six-figure reward was supposedly offered through a negotiator.
"You lead us to Sherri, and we'll give you more cash than you can spend," a negotiator said.
Police said the offer did not appear to be linked to her release.
"The investigation is far from over, in fact it has only begun a new chapter in this investigation," a police official said.
Papini's sister said she doesn't know any reason someone would kidnap her sister.
Police are asking people to come forward and provide any information that can help their investigation.
