American journalist Shelly Kittleson, 49, was kidnapped in Baghdad, Iraq on Tuesday while pursuing her work as a freelance reporter. The kidnapping occurred at a busy intersection, with surveillance footage showing her being forced into a vehicle by two men.

Background on Shelly Kittleson

Kittleson, a Wisconsin native based in Rome, has reported from conflict zones for years, including Afghanistan and Syria. She often took on high-risk assignments, frequently working independently and on a limited budget. Friends and colleagues describe her as dedicated to her craft, willing to go where others wouldn’t.

A Commitment to Reporting

“She is a great reporter and always wants to go to areas where no one wants to go,” said journalist Patrizio Nissirio, a colleague since 2011. Nissirio also recounted a conversation where he urged her to avoid war zones, to which she replied, “I think my work is worth something when I am in those areas.”

Warnings and the Suspect

The U.S. State Department had previously warned Kittleson about potential threats from militia groups. Despite these warnings, she reportedly didn’t believe the threats were credible, telling a friend, “They will not hurt me” shortly before her abduction.

Assistant Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs Dylan Johnson stated the State Department is coordinating with the FBI for her swift release. Iraqi authorities have reportedly taken an individual with ties to the Iranian-aligned militia group Kataib Hizballah into custody in connection with the kidnapping.

Financial Struggles and Dedication

Kittleson faced financial hardship throughout her career, living a “frugal existence” and often relying on the support of Iraqi journalists. Nissirio noted her advocacy for better compensation for freelance journalists, contrasting her lifestyle with that of correspondents from larger news organizations.

Family and Employer Statements

Kittleson’s mother, who hasn’t seen her daughter in person in nearly 25 years, expressed her daughter’s passion for journalism, stating, “Journalism is what she wanted to do so bad…I wanted her to come home and not do it, but she said, ‘I’m helping people.’”

Al-Monitor, where Kittleson worked as a freelance contributor, issued a statement calling for her “safe and immediate release” and affirming their support for her reporting.

Travel Advisory

The State Department currently has a Level 4 Travel Advisory for Iraq, advising Americans not to travel there and to leave the country if already present. This advisory applies to all Americans, including members of the press.