PHOENIX, AZ – A frantic search is underway in Phoenix following the brazen abduction of six-month-old Gabriel from his home in a suburban neighborhood late this afternoon. Police are currently pursuing the parents, George and Nadine Banks, in a rapidly escalating and increasingly bizarre pursuit that has brought traffic to a standstill across several city districts.

The incident began around 4:30 PM when, according to initial reports, a man matching George Banks’ description was seen attempting to take the infant from his crib. Nadine Banks, reportedly in a state of considerable distress, immediately pursued him, initiating a foot chase that quickly escalated into a high-speed vehicle pursuit. Witnesses describe a scene of considerable confusion and alarm, with multiple vehicles involved in the chase.

“It was just… insane,” said Martha Peterson, a resident of the Maplewood Estates neighborhood where the abduction occurred. “One minute I was watering my petunias, the next there was a beat-up brown van screeching down the street, and then George and Nadine were running after it. I thought I was seeing things.”

Police are describing the Banks’ vehicle, a 1972 Ford Gran Torino, as heavily modified and difficult to track. Authorities believe the couple is heading south on I-10, and a state-wide alert has been issued.

“We’re doing everything we can to locate the Banks and ensure the safety of the child,” stated Police Chief Howard Harding at a press conference earlier this evening. “This is a highly unusual situation, and we’re treating it with the utmost seriousness.”

Adding to the already unsettling circumstances, reports suggest the Banks’ pursuit has included a brief, and seemingly impromptu, encounter with a group of Elvis impersonators, and a detour through a local petting zoo.

George Banks, when briefly apprehended during a stop for gas, reportedly stated, “We just wanted a little help! A little… baby!” Nadine Banks, visibly distraught, added, “It’s complicated! Very, very complicated.”

As of this report, the Banks remain at large. The search continues, and updates will be provided as they become available.