The community was left reeling after a tragic end to a tense missing person’s case that turned out to be an abduction. Tatiana David, a 34-year-old Ithaca woman, was found dead after a high-speed chase and shootout between her alleged captor, Michael C. Davis, and Virginia State Police.
David was last seen on West Hill Circle in Ithaca at 7:20 a.m. on April 5. Witnesses reported seeing her forced into a white SUV by Davis, a 34-year-old man from Richmond, Virginia. An endangered adult alert was quickly issued, sparking a frantic search for the pair.
Virginia State Police eventually spotted the white Jeep Cherokee, driven by Davis, with no front plate, tinted windows, and a roof rack. After confirming the identity of the driver, a high-speed chase ensued, culminating in a dramatic crash into the woods when police attempted to surround the vehicle.
A heated exchange of gunfire followed, with Davis shooting at the officers, who returned fire. According to Emanuel Espada, David’s brother, police have confirmed that his sister was the woman killed during the shootout. An autopsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.
Michael Davis, who was also shot during the exchange, was airlifted to Inova Fairfax Hospital and remains in critical condition. Virginia troopers involved in the incident are now on paid administrative leave, in accordance with standard procedure. None of the officers were injured.
Espada revealed to the Ithaca Voice that Davis is the father of David’s child and a former romantic partner. The couple has a four-year-old child together, now left without a mother.
The investigation continues, with Virginia State Police working alongside New York State authorities to determine the next steps in this tragic case and the pending charges against Davis.
Original Report: Ithaca woman abducted, police say she is in danger
New York State Police have issued a Missing Vulnerable Adult Alert on Wednesday concerning the disappearance of Tatiana N. David.
Authorities believe Tatiana is in danger. She was last seen at 7:20 a.m. on West Hill Circle in the City of Ithaca.
The suspect, identified as Michael Davis, was seen with Tatiana driving a white Jeep Cherokee with no front license plate, tinted windows, and a roof rack.
It is suspected that they may be heading towards New York City.
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