Fourteen-year-old Emmarae Gervasi’s disappearance from her Long Island home sparked a frantic 26-day search that culminated in a dramatic rescue orchestrated by her own father. Emmarae vanished after being seen entering a vehicle outside her residence in East Patchogue, Suffolk County, leaving her family in agonizing uncertainty. Security footage captured her a day later, wandering disoriented and knocking on doors in Bohemia, a town less than ten miles from her home, fueling her father’s fears that she was being held against her will. Frank Gervasi, driven by paternal instinct and a desperate hope, launched his own investigation, collaborating closely with the Suffolk County Police Department while simultaneously pursuing his own leads.
The breakthrough came in the form of an anonymous tip directing Frank to a large boat near the White Cap Fish Market and Seafood Restaurant in Islip, Long Island. Racing against time, Frank arrived at the scene before the police, echoing the determined pursuit portrayed in the movie Taken. He discovered his daughter on the boat, bringing an end to the weeks of agonizing uncertainty and fear. Overcome with emotion, Frank described the reunion as "a gift from God," expressing the profound relief of holding his daughter in his arms once more. Emmarae was immediately transported to a hospital to receive medical care and begin her recovery from the traumatic ordeal.
Following Emmarae’s rescue, authorities arrested 65-year-old Francis Buckheit. He was charged with rape, kidnapping, and acting in a manner injurious to a child. Buckheit pleaded not guilty to the charges. Frank Gervasi, however, believes his daughter was a victim of sex trafficking, alleging that she was held captive on the boat, not permitted to leave unescorted, and coerced into performing inappropriate acts. The police investigation continues as authorities gather evidence and piece together the events leading up to and during Emmarae’s disappearance. A boat impounded from a Long Island dock serves as a key piece of evidence in the ongoing investigation.
The harrowing 26-day ordeal left an indelible mark on Emmarae’s family. Frank Gervasi described the period as "26 days of hell," underscoring the intense emotional strain and relentless worry that consumed the family during their daughter’s absence. Emmarae’s mother, Melissa Dervay, shared the overwhelming sense of relief that washed over her upon hearing her daughter’s voice and confirming her safety. The weeks of agonizing uncertainty had taken a heavy toll, leaving her tense and consumed by a quiet battle against despair. The news of Emmarae’s discovery lifted an immense weight from her shoulders, replacing it with elation and gratitude.
While the full details of Emmarae’s captivity remain under investigation, Frank Gervasi has shared some insights into his daughter’s ordeal. He believes Emmarae initially entered the vehicle willingly with someone she knew, but was later taken by Buckheit. He also acknowledged that Emmarae had previously run away from home and had faced certain struggles in her life. These details offer a glimpse into the complexities surrounding her disappearance and the challenges she faced prior to her abduction.
The focus now shifts to the legal proceedings against Francis Buckheit and the continuing investigation into Emmarae’s ordeal. Authorities are working to uncover the full extent of the alleged crimes and ensure that justice is served. As Emmarae begins the process of healing and recovery, her family’s unwavering support and the ongoing investigation will be crucial in helping her overcome the trauma she endured during her 26-day captivity. The case serves as a chilling reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by young people and the importance of vigilance and community support in protecting them from harm.
