It was first believed to be a brazen kidnapping in a busy Yucaipa car park, but investigators now say the mother's story may not fully add up. Seven-month-old Emmanuel Haro vanished on 14 August after his mother, Rebecca Haro, claimed she was attacked while changing him outside a Big 5 Sporting Goods store.
Yet detectives with the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department have revealed inconsistencies in her account, fuelling speculation about what really happened that night. Officials confirmed that foul play cannot be ruled out in the ongoing investigation.
The Disappearance at Big 5 Sporting Goods
The incident unfolded on Yucaipa Boulevard around 7:47 p.m. Rebecca told deputies she had been struck from behind after hearing someone say 'hola' and saw a flash of white before blacking out. When she regained consciousness, Emmanuel was gone. Deputies, aided by K-9 teams, scoured the surrounding area but failed to find the baby.
Description of Missing Baby Emmanuel Haro
Authorities released details to help the public. Emmanuel weighs about 21 pounds (9.5 kg), measures 24 inches (2 feet), has brown hair, brown eyes, and a noticeable cross-eyed appearance.
He was last seen wearing a black Nike onesie. Investigators urged anyone with information to call 911 or the Sheriff's Department at 909-387-8313.
Questions Over the Mother's Story
As detectives dug deeper, inconsistencies surfaced in Rebecca Haro's statements, according to CBS News. When pressed about the discrepancies, she ended the interview.
Officials have not accused her of lying but confirmed her testimony did not line up. They have not said whether these gaps were minor slip-ups or significant contradictions.
For now, no charges have been filed, and she remains a witness rather than a suspect. Authorities have repeated that foul play cannot yet be dismissed, though no suspect or vehicle has been identified.
Family Reaction and Public Appeal
Despite the cloud of uncertainty, the family is focused on Emmanuel's safe return. His father, Jake Haro, told KTLA: 'Whoever took my son, please return him. We just want him back. We won't do anything to you. Just give us our son. Keep him safe, don't hurt him, make sure you feed him and change him.'
Community vigils have been held, and Emmanuel's photo is being widely shared online with hashtags such as #FindEmmanuelHaro gaining traction across the country.
Search Efforts Continue in Yucaipa
Deputies and volunteers continue canvassing local businesses, reviewing CCTV footage, and following up on tips. Specialised teams remain on the case, though no major leads have surfaced. An Amber Alert has not been issued due to the absence of a suspect or vehicle description, though authorities say all options remain open.
National Spotlight and Ongoing Uncertainty
The mystery has captured national attention, with widespread coverage of both the search efforts and the questions surrounding the mother's testimony. Law enforcement has urged caution against speculation as investigators verify timelines and gather more evidence.
As of the latest update, Emmanuel has not been found. Detectives have renewed their appeal for anyone who was in the 34000–34500 block of Yucaipa Boulevard on 14 August to come forward with information.
