A 13-year-old girl’s bravery and quick thinking ultimately saved her life after being abducted from a Texas road, as she was found in California days later. The remarkable rescue brought a positive conclusion to a case that could have had a far more tragic ending.
The harrowing incident began on July 6 in San Antonio when the young victim was walking down a street. Steven Robert Sablan, 61, reportedly approached her in a gray Nissan Sentra, brandishing a black handgun and threatening to harm her if she didn’t comply. He allegedly forced her into his car, launching a terrifying ordeal.
During her traumatic time in captivity, the girl faced sexual assault and endured unimaginable fear. However, her resilience and courage shone through when Sablan took the pair to a laundromat to wash their clothing. Seizing the opportunity, the teenager ingeniously created a sign that simply read, “Help me,” and discreetly flashed it to passersby from inside the vehicle.
Fortune smiled upon her when a vigilant individual noticed the sign and immediately dialed 911, alerting the authorities to the dangerous situation. Responding swiftly, the police arrived at the scene, where the girl managed to mouth the word “Help” to the officers. Without hesitation, they acted decisively, rescuing the brave teen from her captor’s clutches.
Steven Robert Sablan was detained by law enforcement and is now facing federal kidnapping charges. He is set to be arraigned on July 31 and, if convicted, could be sentenced to life in prison for his heinous crimes against the young girl.
The Long Beach Police Chief, Wally Hebeish, commended the quick thinking and courage of the community members who were instrumental in the rescue. Their willingness to get involved and call 911 played a crucial role in keeping the girl safe and ensuring a swift response from law enforcement.
Since her rescue, the teenager has been reunited with her family, bringing a sense of relief and joy after days of uncertainty and fear. Though her ordeal was undoubtedly traumatic, her bravery and resourcefulness serve as an inspiration to others facing dire circumstances.
