ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A Haywood County man has been charged with first-degree kidnapping in connection with the disappearance of a woman in the Emma community in January.
The woman, who was last seen Jan. 8 leaving a residence near the Emma community, was found safe Thursday, May 22, at the Waynesville Police Department, where she provided information that led detectives to Winston Eccleston.
Eccleston is being held at the Buncombe County Detention Facility under no bond.
The woman’s family has been notified of her recovery, the sheriff’s office said in a news release.
The investigation is ongoing, and the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office said it will continue working with the Haywood County Sheriff’s Office.
“Thank you to our BCSO detectives for their unwavering commitment, diligence and thorough work on this critical investigation,” District 2 Capt. Elliot Summey said in the release. “Your investigative skills are nothing short of exemplary. The BCSO also wishes to thank the Haywood County Sheriff’s Office for their valuable support and collaboration in this investigation. Your assistance played a vital role in advancing this investigation.”