The suspect in the kidnapping of a Memphis mother of two was reportedly observed “cleaning the interior” of a GMC Terrain, which cops described as a “vehicle of interest” in the investigation.
The Memphis Police Department filed an arrest affidavit for Cleotha Abston on Sunday, which indicated that two witnesses witnessed the defendant “washing his clothing in the residence sink.”
Eliza Fletcher went missing at 7:45 a.m. on Friday after cops got two reports, one from her spouse, Richard Fletcher III, and the other from the University of Memphis. According to cops, she was forced into a car about 4:30 a.m.
Abston was arrested on Saturday afternoon and accused of aggravated abduction and tampering.
As per authorities, Cleotha Abston “ran violently at” Fletcher and then “compelled” her into the passenger side of the GMC Terrain, causing a “battle” during the kidnapping.
Champion slide sandals were discovered at the scene of the kidnapping and were sent for DNA testing, according to cops. Officials discovered that the shoes belonged to Cleotha Abston.
According to authorities, the GMC Terrain was found in a parking lot in the 5700 block of Waterstone Oak Way, where Cleotha Abston resides, on Saturday at 10:45 a.m., and a person matching the suspect’s description was sighted.
Cleotha Abston tried to escape the place but was apprehended.
According to cops, two persons, including Cleotha Abston’s brother, Mario, informed officers that they saw the suspect cleaning the GMC Terrain with Floor cleaner and washing clothing in the sink.
Mario Abston reported to authorities that his brother was behaving “strangely.”
Cleotha Abston, once arrested, allegedly refused to inform cops where Eliza Fletcher was.
According to police, Fletcher’s injuries “leave evidence, e.g., blood, in the car that the accused cleaned,” which is “probable and evident” based on witness testimonies.
Shelby County Sheriff’s Office deputies were observed on Sunday in the vicinity of Cleotha Abston’s home.
Anyone with information on the kidnapping is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH.
