The Yucaipa kidnapping case involving 7-month-old Emmanuel Haro has captured statewide attention after the infant was reported missing from a Big 5 sporting goods parking lot on Thursday evening, August 14, 2025. However, investigators now cite “inconsistencies” in the mother’s initial statement and say they “cannot rule out foul play” in the case.
The incident unfolded around 7:47 p.m. when Rebecca Haro claimed she was attacked while changing her baby’s diaper in a vehicle at the Big 5 Sporting Goods store on Yucaipa Boulevard. According to her initial account, an unknown assailant knocked her unconscious and kidnapped Emmanuel while she was changing his diaper in her car.
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Mother’s Initial Account Raises Questions
Rebecca Haro initially told authorities she had taken Emmanuel to the Big 5 store to purchase a mouth guard after attending her son’s football practice at a local park. She claimed that while changing the baby’s diaper in her vehicle, someone attacked her from behind, rendering her unconscious.
When she regained consciousness, Emmanuel was gone. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department responded immediately to the 34000 block of Yucaipa Boulevard and launched an extensive search operation.
The search effort included:
- K-9 units
- Helicopter surveillance
- Ground search teams
- Community volunteers
Investigation Takes Unexpected Turn
The Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division interviewed multiple people, including Emmanuel’s parents, Jake and Rebecca Haro. During those interviews, investigators confronted Rebecca about inconsistencies in her initial statement, after which she declined to continue speaking with detectives.
San Bernardino County authorities now state they “cannot rule out foul play” due to these inconsistencies in the mother’s account. This development has shifted the investigation’s focus and raised new questions about what actually happened that Thursday evening.
Community Response and Ongoing Search
Despite the investigation’s changing direction, the search for Emmanuel continues. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is asking for the public’s help in finding the missing baby boy.
Emmanuel was last seen wearing specific clothing, and authorities urge anyone with information to contact law enforcement immediately. The case has generated significant media attention throughout Southern California, with community members expressing concern for the infant’s safety.
Local residents have organized search parties and shared information on social media platforms, demonstrating the community’s commitment to bringing Emmanuel home safely. The Big 5 parking lot where the incident allegedly occurred has become a focal point for both investigators and concerned citizens.
Law Enforcement’s Cautious Approach
Investigators emphasize they can’t rule out the possibility of foul play in the disappearance of the baby who was reported as kidnapped in Yucaipa. This measured statement reflects law enforcement’s careful approach to a case that has evolved significantly since the initial report.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department continues their investigation, with the Specialized Investigations Division taking the lead on the case. They’re analyzing evidence, conducting interviews, and following up on tips from the public.
The unusual circumstances surrounding this Yucaipa kidnapping case have prompted investigators to explore multiple scenarios. While the initial report suggested a random abduction, the discovery of inconsistencies has broadened the scope of their investigation.
As the search for 7-month-old Emmanuel Haro continues, authorities maintain their commitment to uncovering the truth behind his disappearance. The case serves as a reminder of how quickly missing person investigations can evolve as new information emerges.
The San Bernardino County community remains vigilant, hoping for Emmanuel’s safe return while supporting law enforcement’s thorough investigation into this troubling case.
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