Cottonwood kidnapping instead a case of theft

Yavapai County Sheriff's Office says two suspects have been booked into jail on theft charges after a reported kidnapping in Cottonwood on Friday.

The incident was originally called out as a kidnapping after someone reported a woman and her teenage son were pushed into a car and taken from the area. They were believed to be with an armed felon and officials were attempting to locate two separate vehicles involved.

According to an update, the woman who was believed to have been kidnapped, 35-year-old Virginia "Samantha" Reyes, had gotten in an argument with another woman in the area over a Dodge Charger rental car and money.

Reyes called 29-year-old Charles Fitzpatrick for help after she reported threats from the other party. Fitzpatrick soon arrived in a Dodge Neon with Reyes' son and another man. 

Fitzpatrick took the Charger and pushed Reyes into the car, prompting kidnapping concerns. She and her son were later found at a home in Clarkdale, but denied kidnapping charges.

During the getaway, though, officials say Fitzpatrick struck a man with the vehicle, causing minor leg injuries.

Fitzpatrick later told police he parked the Charger near the Tuzigoot National Monument area, but officials found the car in the Verde River. After removing the car from the river, officials found a rock attached to the gas pedal. He then admitted to dumping the vehicle in hopes no one would find it.

Both Reyes and Fitzpatrick were booked on charges including vehicle theft, property damage, endangerment and hindering prosecution.