An urgent search is underway in Georgia for two young sisters, Zola Cooper, aged four, and her 11-month-old sister Norah, after they were reported missing under troubling circumstances. The Atlanta Police Department has issued an Amber Alert, indicating that the children are believed to have been abducted by their babysitter, 42-year-old Lakesha Brown.
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Police reports indicate that the sisters were last seen in the company of Brown on Saturday, August 15, at around 6 p.m. at a location on James P. Brawley Drive NW in Atlanta. Authorities, including the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), have expressed grave concerns for the girls’ safety, labelling their situation as “extreme danger.”
The Amber Alert was initiated following the children’s disappearance, prompting law enforcement to intensify their search efforts. As part of these efforts, investigators have released descriptions of both Norah and Zola, along with details about the vehicle they may be travelling in. The sisters are likely aboard a white 2009 Ford F-350 pickup truck that bears an Alabama licence plate numbered IC087Y4. Reports suggest that the vehicle could be headed towards southwest Atlanta.
Norah, the younger of the two, is described as being approximately 2 feet tall and weighing around 28 pounds. She has black hair and brown eyes, and was last seen wearing a pink onesie. Notably, Norah is missing two fingers on her right hand—specifically her index and middle fingers. Her older sister, Zola, stands at about 3 feet 9 inches tall and weighs 42 pounds, also sporting black hair and brown eyes. She was last reported to be in a multicoloured dress.
In addition to the immediate search for the children, authorities have drawn attention to Lakesha Brown’s past. It has come to light that she may previously have faced a kidnapping charge in Jefferson County, Alabama, back in 2021. Atlanta police have confirmed investigations are underway to determine if she is indeed the same individual involved in that prior incident, although details surrounding the resolution of that case remain unclear.
Given the critical nature of this situation, law enforcement has called on the public for assistance. They urge anyone who may have seen the children or Brown, or who has any relevant information, to contact emergency services immediately by dialling 911. Alternatively, tips can be reported to the Atlanta Police Department at 470-218-5001. There is also an option to reach out to the Special Victims Unit at 404-546-4260 or report to Crime Stoppers Atlanta at 404-577-TIPS (8477).
This incident has drawn significant attention, highlighting the potential dangers children may face in similar situations, particularly involving individuals responsible for their care. Atlanta authorities remain committed to reuniting the sisters with their family and ensuring their safety. As the search continues, local residents are being encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious sightings or information relating to the case.
As the situation develops, updates will be provided by the Atlanta Police Department and other involved agencies, all striving to locate Zola and Norah Cooper and bring them home safely.