A father’s love can move mountains, and this was evident when a devoted dad found his kidnapped daughter before law enforcement could, after enduring 26 agonizing days.
Imagine the joy and relief Frank Gervasi must have felt when he finally found his 14-year-old daughter, Emmarae, alive on a boat after what seemed like an endless nightmare.
In connection to this distressing case, 65-year-old Francis Buckheit has been arrested, facing serious charges of rape and kidnapping. The story has gripped the hearts of local residents and beyond, as people rallied together to search for Emmarae.
It all started when Emmarae vanished from her home in East Patchogue, Suffolk County, after stepping outside to retrieve something from a family vehicle, only to be taken by someone lurking nearby.
Frank Gervasi couldn’t bear the thought of not knowing where his daughter was. Speaking candidly to News 12, he shared, “I found her before the police. Holding her after those 26 days of hell, it felt like a divine gift. You can’t put into words the relief.”
While Buckheit has denied the charges, he remains in custody without bail pending further court visits. As the investigation continues, Emmarae is in a hospital receiving care and support.
In a heartfelt video shared online, Frank Gervasi gratefully thanked everyone who helped in the search efforts. “Emmarae’s back, she’s safe, and getting the help she needs,” he announced with a visibly relieved heart.
“A community united can achieve wonders,” Frank noted, acknowledging the vital role of public support in spreading videos, distributing flyers, and dedicating time to search for his daughter. “Such dedication is what ultimately helps bring children back safely,” he emphasized.
Frank detailed how an anonymous tip led him to Emmarae’s location. “Someone bravely called me, revealing she was on a boat in Islip. I decided to follow through and checked myself,” he explained. “I bravely entered the boat, found her, and brought her home.”
It’s believed that young Emmarae initially left with someone familiar but then found herself trapped in a situation, possibly too scared to return home due to potential repercussions.
At the time of her disappearance, Emmarae was seen without a coat or shoes getting into a dark-colored car. Further sightings indicated she was at a Bohemia motel before disappearing again, causing grave concerns for her safety.
In the early stages of the search, Frank expressed his worst fears: “I worry she’s held against her will. She’s with someone who won’t let her leave or, even worse, she might have been harmed.”
With a steadfast heart, he vowed not to rest until she was found, saying, “I refuse to give up until she is back home.”
As the young girl recovers, we’re sending our best wishes for a swift and wholesome recovery.
