Update: Ecuadorian Soccer Player Jackson Rodríguez’s Wife & Child Rescued After Being Kidnapped While He Hid From Gunmen

Update: Ecuadorian Soccer Player Jackson Rodríguez’s Wife & Child Rescued After Being Kidnapped While He Hid From Gunmen

The family of Ecuadorian soccer player Jackson Rodríguez has been found safe and alive following a terrifying kidnapping.

According to reports, Jackson’s 24-year-old wife and 5-year-old child were rescued and taken to a local hospital after they were abducted by armed gunmen from the family’s home in Guayaquil last week.

As previously reported, Jackson, 26, told police he hid under a bed while masked intruders stormed the house around 3 AM, demanding to know where he was. When they couldn’t find him, they kidnapped his wife and child — and later demanded a $500,000 ransom.

Authorities say the family refused to pay. Incredibly, the victims were found the very next day in one of the most dangerous areas of the city — a place where 22 people were massacred in March amid escalating cartel violence.

 

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Jackson, who plays for top division club Emelec, is believed to have been the intended target. The incident comes amid rising threats to public figures in Ecuador, where violent organized crime has surged. A state of emergency was declared earlier this year.

Sadly, this isn’t an isolated case. Last year, fellow soccer player Pedro Perlaza (of Liga de Quito) was kidnapped in Esmeraldas but was found alive days later.

Jackson has not spoken publicly about the terrifying ordeal. Fans and teammates continue to express relief and support.

Sending strength to the family as they recover from this traumatic event. 

[VIA]