Tupelo, MS (BuzzReport) — A Tupelo man has been arrested and charged with kidnapping following a police investigation that began with a distress call near a local park earlier this week.
According to authorities, officers were dispatched on March 18, 2026, to the area of Ballard Park after receiving a report of a possible kidnapping. An individual told police that a friend had managed to make contact and claimed she was being held against her will by her ex-boyfriend, who was believed to be armed.
Officers quickly gathered a description of the suspect’s vehicle and began searching the area. A short time later, law enforcement located the vehicle on Mitchell Road. The suspect was taken into custody at the scene on misdemeanor charges as officers worked to assess the situation and ensure the victim’s safety.
Following further investigation, authorities upgraded the case. On March 20, 2026, William H. McCord, 32, of Tupelo, was formally arrested and charged with one count of kidnapping.
During a court appearance the same day, Tupelo Municipal Judge Weir ordered that McCord be held without bond. Officials confirmed that the case will be presented to the Lee County Grand Jury for further legal proceedings.
Authorities have not released additional details about the victim but indicated that swift action by responding officers played a critical role in resolving the situation.
The investigation remains ongoing.