Freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson, a Wisconsin native, was abducted in Baghdad on Tuesday, sparking concern among family and colleagues. Kittleson, 49, has spent years reporting from Iraq and across the Middle East, often working independently.

Years of Reporting in a Challenging Region

Kittleson frequently operated on a limited budget, relying on shared taxis and navigating areas with significant militia presence. She based herself in Rome for a period but dedicated much of her career to reporting from the Middle East. She has reported for outlets including Al-Monitor, a regional news site.

A Dedicated Journalist

Patrizio Nissirio, a former editor at Italian news agency ANSA who has known Kittleson since 2011, described her dedication. “She is a great reporter and always wants to go to areas where no one wants to go,” Nissirio said. He 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.”

Details of the Abduction

Surveillance footage shows Kittleson being forced into a car by two men at a busy Baghdad intersection on Tuesday. Prior to her abduction, she had informed a friend that U.S. officials warned her of a militia group intending to target her, but she dismissed the threat as not credible.

Financial Struggles and Independence

Kittleson often worked alone, traveling extensively and carrying her belongings with her. She embraced a frugal lifestyle and frequently relied on the support of Iraqi journalists. Nissirio noted her financial struggles, stating, “She always complained of the treatment of freelance journalists, saying they are not paid enough.”

Recent Travel and Warnings

On March 9, Kittleson attempted to enter Iraq from Syria at the al-Qaim border crossing but was turned back by Iraqi intelligence officers due to kidnapping threats. She subsequently entered Iraq from Jordan without issue. Her mother, Barb Kittleson, stated they exchanged emails regularly, including on Monday, when her daughter sent recent pictures.

Last Known Communications

Hours before her abduction, Kittleson discussed transport routes with colleagues and friends while seeking story access. She told a friend, “They will not hurt me,” expressing confidence in her ability to navigate security checkpoints, where she had been stopped previously. She also spoke of mounting financial strain and a lack of assignments.

A Passion for Journalism

Kittleson’s most recent article was published Monday in the Italian newspaper Il Foglio, focusing on the impact of the Iran war on Iraq’s Kurdish region. Her mother emphasized her daughter’s dedication, saying, “Journalism is what she wanted to do so bad…she said, ‘I’m helping people.’” She had not seen her daughter in person since 2002.