Man arrested for kidnapping after victim escapes in South MS, authorities say

A man who authorities say kidnapped and sexually assaulted a woman was arrested on Thursday in Jackson County.

Jackson County Sheriff’s deputies went to the Circle K gas station in St. Martin at 9 a.m. and found the woman, who said she had been kidnapped from her home in Alabama and assaulted by her ex-boyfriend.

The suspect, Melvin Hill, was arrested as he tried to return to Alabama, the sheriff’s office said in a news release. The 44-year-old is being held without bond pending an initial court appearance.

The woman escaped Hill by running into the Circle K and telling employees, authorities said.

Hill is held in the Jackson County jail and faces charges of kidnapping, motor vehicle theft and sexual battery. Authorities said he would likely face more charges in Alabama.