10-Year-Old California Girl Rescued After Being Lured Through Online Gaming; 27-Year-Old Suspect Arrested in Elk Grove

In a harrowing case that underscores growing concerns about children’s online safety, a 10-year-old girl from Taft, California, was kidnapped after allegedly being lured through online gaming platforms such as Roblox and Discord. The girl was located more than four hours away from her home, and the man accused of taking her—27-year-old Matthew Macatuno Naval—was arrested without incident.

The ordeal began on Friday, April 12, 2025, when the girl was last seen at her family’s home in Taft. When her parents discovered she was missing early Saturday morning, April 13, they immediately contacted local authorities. A widespread search was launched by the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, which ultimately led investigators to uncover disturbing online communications between the child and Naval, including exchanges on gaming and messaging platforms.

Using digital forensics, law enforcement traced the suspect’s whereabouts to Elk Grove, a city in the Sacramento area. Deputies with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office located Naval and the missing girl at a strip mall later that same day. The girl was recovered safely and taken into protective custody before being reunited with her family.

According to investigators, Naval had groomed the girl online over time, building trust through platforms popular among young users. He allegedly used this rapport to manipulate her into leaving home and meeting him in person.

Authorities confirmed that Naval is now facing multiple charges, including kidnapping and child luring, and is being held in custody. The Kern County Sheriff’s Office and other partnering agencies are continuing the investigation and reviewing evidence to determine if further charges will be filed, including potential federal offenses.

“This case is a stark reminder of the real-world dangers that can arise from online interactions, especially when children are involved,” a spokesperson for the Kern County Sheriff’s Office said. “We strongly urge parents and guardians to remain vigilant, monitor their children’s online activity, and talk openly with them about internet safety.”

The incident has sparked renewed conversations about child protection in the digital age. Law enforcement and child safety advocates are urging platforms like Roblox and Discord to improve safety measures and parental controls to prevent such situations from occurring.

The young girl, though shaken, was reportedly in good health upon her recovery. Mental health professionals and victim advocates are now working with the family to provide support as they begin the process of healing.

Matthew Naval is expected to be arraigned in the coming days. Investigators have not ruled out the possibility of other victims and encourage anyone with relevant information to come forward.

This troubling incident serves as a powerful reminder of the hidden dangers lurking online and the critical need for awareness, oversight, and education when it comes to children’s internet use.