In a stunning end to a six-year-long mystery, Heather Unbehaun — the woman accused of abducting her 9-year-old daughter from an Illinois suburb — has turned herself in, just days after the girl was found safe in North Carolina.
Now 15, Kayla Unbehaun has finally been reunited with her custodial father, Ryan Iserka, after disappearing in 2017. Her mother, Heather, is currently in custody at the Kane County Adult Justice Center, facing serious child abduction charges with no option for bail.
A Case That Captivated the Nation
The abduction took place on July 4, 2017, after a local parade in South Elgin, Illinois. Heather told Kayla’s father they were heading out on a simple camping trip — but the two never returned. A felony warrant was soon issued for Heather’s arrest.
For years, the case went cold — until a viewer of Netflix’s “Unsolved Mysteries” recognized Kayla in Asheville, North Carolina, and immediately contacted police. That tip changed everything.
Mugshot of Kayla’s mother Heather Unbehaun, Photo Credit: ABC 7 Chicago/Youtube
From Fugitive to Arrest
Heather Unbehaun was arrested on a fugitive warrant out of Illinois. Though initially held on $250,000 bond, she was later released after posting bail — a move that has sparked public concern.
Kayla’s father, Ryan Iserka, had been granted full custody in 2017 after a tense legal battle. Court records show that Heather’s parenting time was limited, and Iserka had sole authority over Kayla’s medical decisions due to past interference.
His attorney, John Vojta, expressed concern over Heather’s release, given her long-standing fugitive status.
Kayla Unbehaun standing next to her dad smiling, Photo Credit: ABC 7 Chicago/Youtube
“Bring Kayla Home” Becomes Reality
Supporters of the “Bring Kayla Home” campaign expressed both relief and gratitude following the safe recovery. In a heartfelt statement, Iserka thanked law enforcement and the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, crediting them and the public for helping bring Kayla home.
Heather Unbehaun is due back in court this Wednesday at the Kane County Judicial Center, where legal proceedings will officially begin.
As the case unfolds, one thing is clear: what started as a heart-wrenching disappearance has become one of the most dramatic and unexpected family reunions in recent memory.
