Dustin Duren Kidnapping Case: Vaelyn Duren & Elowyn Duren Found? Latest Update
Dustin Duren is a 37-year-old man from Berlin, New Hampshire, who is accused of kidnapping his two daughters and killing their mother on February 28, 2024. He was arrested the next day in Keene, New Hampshire after an Amber Alert was issued and a witness spotted his car.
He is facing charges of second-degree murder, kidnapping, and possible firearm offenses. He has a history of mental health issues, substance abuse, and domestic violence, according to court records. He was in the process of divorcing his wife, Caitlyn Naffziger, who had filed a restraining order against him in January 2024.
A shocking and tragic story unfolded in New Hampshire last week when a father allegedly kidnapped his two young daughters and killed their mother. Here’s what we know so far about the Dustin Duren kidnapping case and the latest update on the fate of the children.
What happened?
On Thursday night, February 28, 2024, police responded to a call at an apartment in Berlin, where they found the body of 31-year-old Caitlyn Naffziger, who had been shot in the head. She was the mother of two girls, 4-year-old Elowyn Duren and 13-month-old Vaelyn Duren, who were missing from the scene.
Police issued an Amber Alert for the two children, who were believed to have been abducted by their father, 37-year-old Dustin Mark Duren. He was considered armed and dangerous and was last seen driving a white 2017 Subaru Impreza with a New Hampshire veteran tag.
The Amber Alert sparked a massive search effort, involving multiple law enforcement agencies, media outlets, and concerned citizens. Police received several tips and sightings of the vehicle, but none led to the capture of the suspect or the recovery of the children.
Dustin Duren Kidnapping Case
| Name | Dustin Mark Duren |
| Age | 37 |
| Residence | Berlin, New Hampshire |
| Occupation | Unknown |
| Charges | Second-degree murder, kidnapping, possible firearm offenses |
| Date | February 28 – March 1, 2024 |
| Location | Berlin and Keene, New Hampshire |
| Victims | Elowyn Duren, 4, and Vaelyn Duren, 13 months |
| Suspect | Dustin Mark Duren, 37, their father |
| Outcome | The children were found safe, the suspect was arrested, and the mother was killed |
How were the children found?
On Friday morning, March 1, 2024, a breakthrough came when a witness spotted the Subaru Impreza in the parking lot of an Applebee’s restaurant in Keene, about 100 miles south of Berlin. The witness recognized the car from the Amber Alert and called 911.
Police arrived at the scene and surrounded the vehicle, where they saw Dustin Duren and his two daughters inside. They ordered Duren to get out of the car and surrender, which he did without resistance. He was taken into custody and charged with second-degree murder in connection with Naffziger’s death.
The two girls were safely rescued and checked by medical personnel. They appeared to be unharmed and in good condition, according to police. They were reunited with their maternal grandparents, who had been anxiously waiting for news of their whereabouts.
What is the motive?
The motive behind the kidnapping and the murder remains unclear, as police are still investigating the case. However, some details have emerged that suggest a troubled relationship between Duren and Naffziger, and a possible history of domestic violence.
According to court records, Duren and Naffziger were married in 2019, but separated in 2023. They had filed for divorce in December 2023, and were in the process of finalizing it. They had agreed to share custody of their two daughters, with Duren having them every other weekend.
However, Naffziger had filed a restraining order against Duren in January 2024, alleging that he had threatened to kill her and himself, and that he had a gun. She also claimed that he had been abusive and controlling during their marriage, and that he had a history of mental health issues and substance abuse. She said she feared for her safety and the safety of her children.
The restraining order was granted, but it was set to expire on February 28, 2024, the same day that Naffziger was killed and the children were kidnapped. It is not clear if Duren knew about the expiration date, or if it was a coincidence.
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What is the reaction?
The Dustin Duren kidnapping case has shocked and saddened the community of Berlin, where Naffziger and her children lived. Neighbors, friends, and relatives have expressed their grief and disbelief over the senseless crime, and their relief and joy over the safe return of the children.
A candlelight vigil was held on Friday night at the apartment complex where Naffziger was killed, to honor her memory and to support her family. Many people brought flowers, balloons, stuffed animals, and cards to pay their respects.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the family with funeral expenses and other needs. As of Saturday, March 2, 2024, the page has raised over $20,000 from more than 400 donors. The page also features messages of condolences and prayers from people who knew Naffziger or were touched by her story.
The case has also sparked a discussion about the issue of domestic violence, and the need for more awareness and prevention. Some advocates have called for stricter laws and enforcement to protect victims and their children from abusers, and to provide more resources and support for survivors.
What is the next step?
Dustin Duren is currently being held without bail at the Cheshire County jail, pending his arraignment on Monday, March 4, 2024. He faces a possible sentence of life in prison without parole if convicted of second-degree murder. He may also face additional charges related to the kidnapping and the use of a firearm.
The two children are in the custody of their maternal grandparents, who have been appointed as their legal guardians. They are receiving counseling and care to help them cope with the trauma and loss they have experienced. They are also surrounded by the love and support of their extended family and friends.
The investigation into the case is ongoing, as police are still collecting and analyzing evidence, and interviewing witnesses and associates of Duren and Naffziger. They are also working with the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office, which is overseeing the prosecution of the case.
This is a developing story, and we will update it as more information becomes available. Stay tuned for the latest news and updates on the Dustin Duren kidnapping case.
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