Memphis Tennessee – A 5-month-old baby was safely rescued early Thursday morning after being abducted at gunpoint by her father in a tense and urgent search operation.

Just before midnight Wednesday, Robert Avant forcibly took his infant daughter from a home on Neely Road, sparking an immediate and massive police response.

Memphis Police, working alongside the Tennessee Highway Patrol and DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office, quickly launched a search using officers on foot, vehicles, and drones.

A City Watch alert mobilized the community to help in the search for the missing baby.

At around 5 a.m., officers found the suspect and the unharmed baby just a block from the abduction site on Southland Drive.

The baby was swiftly returned to her mother amid relief and gratitude.

Assistant Chief Don Crowe praised the swift, coordinated effort. “This situation could have ended tragically, but thanks to our dedicated officers and partners, we have a happy ending.”

Avant was arrested and charged with aggravated burglary, kidnapping, and possession of a firearm during a felony.

Police and community members were thanked for their roles in the rescue that kept the baby safe.

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