Carlee Russell, formally known as Carlethia “Carlee” Nichole Russell, is a 25-year-old woman from Hoover, Alabama, known for her pursuit of a career in nursing and her heartfelt dedication to helping others.

Read Updated: Carlee Russell Safely Returns Home Following Mysterious Two-Day Disappearance

Having earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from AUM, Carlee was employed at The Woodhouse Day Spa and was studying at Jeff State to further her dream of becoming a nurse.

Described as a ‘courteous, smart, and honouring young woman’ by those who knew her, Carlee Russell’s life took an unexpected and alarming turn on a fateful night.

On the evening of her disappearance, Carlee Russell was returning from work and had stopped at Taziki’s at the Colonnade around 9 PM to pick up food for herself and her mother.

However, the routine of her journey was disrupted when she noticed a toddler walking alone on the side of Interstate 459. Moved by concern for the child, Carlee made a call to Hoover 911 to report the unsettling sight.

Following the call to 911, she informed a family member about the situation. The conversation, however, was abruptly cut short, and despite the line remaining open, no further contact was made with Carlee.

Minutes later, police arrived at the scene to find Carlee’s red Mercedes still running but empty, and some of her belongings scattered nearby. Despite their immediate response, neither Carlee Russell nor the child she reported seeing were found in the area.

This mysterious event marked the beginning of a frantic search for Carlee Russell, leaving both family members and investigators puzzled and deeply concerned about her whereabouts.

The Night of Disappearance of Carlee Russell

Activities of Carlee Russell Prior to Her Disappearance

On the night of her disappearance (13th July, 2023), Carlee Russell was returning home from work. She stopped at a local restaurant, Taziki’s at the Colonnade, around 9 PM to pick up food for herself and her mother.

This seemingly ordinary night took an alarming turn when she noticed a toddler wandering alone near Interstate 459.

Her 911 Call and Interaction with the Dispatcher

Carlee’s concern for the toddler led her to immediately contact Hoover 911. She informed the dispatcher about the toddler she spotted alone near mile marker 11, between the flyover to the Galleria and Highway 150. This 911 call was made at approximately 9:34 PM.

Conversation with the Family Member of Carlee Russell

After her call to the emergency services, Carlee reached out to a family member. She was able to convey the unusual situation she came across and her intentions to check on the child.

However, the line remained open after the family member lost contact with her, raising concerns about her wellbeing.

Details About the Scene of Disappearance of Carlee Russell

The police, already en route due to Carlee’s 911 call, arrived at the scene to find her red Mercedes still running, but without any signs of Carlee.

The toddler she reported was also nowhere to be found. Various personal belongings of Carlee were discovered at the scene, including her phone, wig, and hat, creating a more mysterious and worrying picture of the situation.

In addition to these findings, Carlee’s mother, Talitha Russell, shared a piece of crucial information.

She stated that another family member – the girlfriend of Carlee’s brother – was on the phone with Carlee around 9:36 PM when she heard a scream followed by the noise of passing vehicles on the interstate.

The Investigation

Police Response and Findings at the Scene

Upon receiving Carlee Russell‘s 911 call, the Hoover Police Department swiftly responded. Officers arriving at the scene found her red Mercedes still running but vacant, indicating a hasty exit or interruption.

Notably, some of Carlee’s belongings were discovered nearby, including her phone, wig, and hat.

However, there was no sign of her or the reported child in the vicinity. The police thoroughly examined the scene, but the lack of additional concrete evidence made the case more complex and puzzling.

Eyewitness Accounts and Clues

In the investigation’s early stages, an important clue was brought forward by a trucker who reported seeing a tall brown-skinned man wearing khaki shorts leaning over a gray car in the area.

Talitha Russell, Carlee’s mother, shared this piece of information with the police. Additionally, tire tracks were found in the grass at the scene.

While the area was not muddy, preventing a clear determination of the vehicle type, this evidence indicated possible suspicious activity around the time of Carlee’s disappearance.

Ongoing Efforts and Resources Involved in the Investigation

The case of Carlee Russell’s disappearance has garnered significant attention, leading to numerous tips being reported to the police. Each tip is meticulously assigned to an investigator for follow-up.

The Hoover Police Department, in collaboration with their partners, is utilizing all available resources in the ongoing investigation. Authorities have committed to exploring every possible scenario and have stated that they are “leaving nothing off the table”.

The investigation’s status has been frequently updated at press conferences, with Lieutenant Daniel Lowe assuring the public of their continuous efforts.

The information related to Carlee’s case has also been forwarded to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, indicating a state-wide effort to locate her.

The Search for Carlee Russell

Community Response and Volunteer Efforts to Find Carlee Russell

The disappearance of Carlee Russell has significantly impacted the community, sparking numerous volunteer-led efforts to aid in her search. From Tuscaloosa to Vestavia Hills to Gardendale, teams of dedicated volunteers have rallied together, determined to bring Carlee home safely.

A large group of volunteers, organized by Carlee’s parents, are also actively assisting in the search efforts. This community engagement underscores the profound effect of Carlee’s disappearance and the collective hope for her safe return.

Distribution of Flyers and Area Searches

An integral part of the search efforts involves the widespread distribution of flyers featuring Carlee’s photo and pertinent information. These flyers have been disseminated throughout various communities, acting as a constant reminder for the public to remain vigilant and aware of Carlee’s case.

Furthermore, meticulous area searches have been conducted following the conclusion of the official grid search where Carlee’s car was found. These searches, spearheaded by volunteers, are crucial in expanding the scope of the investigation and leaving no stone unturned.

Involvement of Other Missing Persons’ Families

In a poignant display of solidarity, families of other missing individuals have joined the search for Carlee. Among them is Angela Harris, the mother of Aniah Blanchard, a Southern Union Community College student who tragically vanished in 2019.

Harris’s involvement serves as a powerful testament to the unity and strength of families enduring similar hardships. Her experience and determination provide invaluable support to Carlee’s family, further fueling the ongoing efforts to locate Carlee Russell.

Reward Information

Details About the Rewards Being Offered

In a bid to expedite the search for Carlee Russell, several substantial rewards have been offered for any information that could lead to her whereabouts.

An initial reward of $5,000 was announced for any leads that could assist in locating Carlee. This was followed by an additional $20,000 offered by anonymous donors, bringing the total reward to a staggering $25,000.

Contributions from Anonymous Donors and Crime Stoppers

A significant portion of the reward money has come from generous anonymous donors, reflecting the deep community engagement in the search for Carlee.

These anonymous contributions have greatly increased the reward amount, thereby amplifying the potential leads that could be derived from the public.

Moreover, Crime Stoppers has also played a crucial role in the efforts to locate Carlee, contributing to the reward fund and providing an anonymous tip line.

This offers a secure way for individuals to share any information they may have, which could be critical in uncovering the truth behind Carlee Russell’s mysterious disappearance.

Carlee Russell’s Personal Life

Educational Background and Occupation of Carlee Russell

Carlee Russell, a dedicated and hardworking individual, pursued her passion for helping others through her chosen career path.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) and was furthering her education at Jefferson State Community College (Jeff State) with the goal of becoming a nurse.

While studying, Carlee worked at The Woodhouse Day Spa, demonstrating her commitment to providing care and comfort to others. Her academic pursuits and professional endeavors paint a picture of a young woman with a clear vision and dedication to service.

Personal Traits and Her Mother’s Reflections

Described as a “courteous, smart, and honoring young woman,” Carlee’s personality left a strong impact on those around her. Her mother, Talitha Russell, fondly reflected on Carlee’s caring nature and determination. She shared that Carlee was always one to go the extra mile to help anyone in need.

Carlee’s concern for the well-being of others was evident in her final actions, where she reported a toddler walking alone on the side of the highway. Her selfless nature and instinct to aid others underscores her character and the immense loss felt by her disappearance.

Talitha Russell, in a heartfelt message to her daughter, expressed her unwavering hope and determination to find Carlee. She affirmed that they would “never stop looking” and that their “faith will not falter.”

What We Know Till Now?

Current Status of the Case

The case of Carlee Russell‘s disappearance remains unsolved at the time of writing this article. Despite the exhaustive search efforts by the police, volunteers, and her family, Carlee’s whereabouts remain unknown.

The Hoover Police Department continues to pursue all leads, and the search is far from over. With new tips and information continuously coming in, the investigators are optimistic about making progress in this mystifying case.

Contact Information for Anyone with Information about the Whereabouts of Carlee Russell

Anyone with information that could assist in locating Carlee is urged to come forward. Information can be reported to the Hoover Police Department at 205-822-5300.

Additionally, tips can be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. No detail is too small, and any piece of information could potentially be a significant lead in the investigation.

Encouragement for the Public to Remain Vigilant and Assist in the Search

The public is urged to remain vigilant and aware of any information that might aid in finding Carlee. Share her story, distribute flyers, and spread the word on social media. Remember that everyone can play a role in this search.

In this challenging time, the community’s support is crucial. Together, we can keep the hope alive and continue the search for Carlee Russell. Her family, friends, and community eagerly await her safe return, and every effort made contributes to bringing Carlee home.

FAQs

Carlee Russell, also known as Carlethia “Carlee” Nichole Russell, is a 25-year-old woman from Hoover, Alabama. She was studying to become a nurse and worked at The Woodhouse Day Spa.

Carlee Russell disappeared on the evening of July 13, 2023, near mile marker 11 on Interstate 459, between the flyover to the Galleria and Highway 150.

Carlee called 911 after spotting a toddler alone near Interstate 459. After her call and a brief conversation with a family member, she disappeared. Her car was found running with her belongings nearby.

The Hoover Police Department is actively investigating Carlee’s case, following up on every tip received, and working in collaboration with state agencies. They have also shared information about Carlee’s disappearance state-wide.

The public can assist by sharing information about Carlee, distributing flyers, and reporting any relevant information to the Hoover Police Department at 205-822-5300 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.

A total reward of $25,000 is being offered for any information leading to Carlee Russell, with $20,000 contributed by anonymous donors and $5,000 by other sources.

Carlee Russell is described as a courteous, smart, and honorable young woman. She is known for her dedication to helping others and her ambition to become a nurse.

As of 16th July, 2023, the case remains unsolved and Carlee Russell is still missing. The Hoover Police Department continues to investigate and follow up on all leads.

Sources:

ncG1vNJzZmilqam1qMXAmqVnm5%2BifKSt0aWcnmWiqsC0sculZg%3D%3D