Springfield, MO – A 30-year-old Missouri man is in custody after allegedly following a woman and her young child home from a Target store and attempting to kidnap her outside her apartment complex, according to police. Authorities say the man, identified as Joshua York, is facing multiple felony charges after a terrifying encounter that left the victim and her 2-year-old son traumatized.
The Incident: Target Visit Turns into a Terrifying Attack
According to a probable cause affidavit, the victim and her 2-year-old son arrived at a Target store in Springfield around 1:30 p.m. on October 15. Inside the store, York reportedly noticed the woman, later telling police that he thought she was “cute.” Investigators said he began following her through the aisles and eventually out into the parking lot.
The woman checked out and drove home, unaware that York had followed her. Once she arrived at her apartment complex, she began unloading groceries while her son slept in the car. On her final trip, as she lifted her child out of the car seat, she sensed something was wrong.
“She had a feeling she should look behind her,” the affidavit stated.
That’s when she spotted York squatting behind a nearby car. As she confronted him and shouted, “What are you doing?”, York allegedly rushed toward her, grabbed her arm, and began pulling her toward the parking lot.
The woman screamed for help while holding her child, and the suspect allegedly pushed them both to the ground before fleeing the scene.
Investigation and Evidence Collected
Several witnesses heard the commotion and rushed to help. One driver in the parking lot reported hearing what she described as a “bloody murder scream.” She saw a man sprinting away from the scene and jump into an SUV before speeding off.
Another neighbor told police he heard the screams, grabbed his gun, and ran outside. He found the woman and her child on the ground, visibly shaken, and saw the suspect’s vehicle fleeing the complex.
Investigators reviewed surveillance video, which captured the suspect’s license plate and vehicle description. The footage also showed the suspect later stopping at a gas station, where he was wearing a shirt bearing the logo of JY Executive Auto Detailing, a business York reportedly owns.
Police used the surveillance evidence to track and arrest Joshua York on Thursday, October 17. He was taken into custody without incident.
Suspect’s Account and Prior History
During questioning, York admitted to being at Target that day and claimed that he had spoken with the victim, complimenting her appearance. He told detectives that the woman invited him back to her apartment, but once there, she “changed her mind” and asked him to leave.
York said he became upset and demanded $20 from her before leaving when she began screaming. Investigators dismissed his story as inconsistent with eyewitness accounts and video evidence.
Court documents also revealed York’s disturbing history of harassment. He was previously accused of stalking an ex-girlfriend and had another ex report finding women’s underwear hidden under his bed. Authorities noted that these past allegations highlight a pattern of predatory behavior.
Court Proceedings and Charges Filed
York has been charged with:
- Second-degree kidnapping
- Stalking
- Endangering the welfare of a child
He remains in custody at the Greene County Jail without bond, according to court records. The Greene County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
Prosecutors said they consider the case an example of targeted predation—a random attack motivated by impulse and opportunity. The victim was not previously known to York.
Public Reaction and Safety Concerns
The attempted abduction has raised concerns among Springfield residents, especially women who frequent shopping centers with young children. Police have reminded the public to remain alert and report suspicious behavior immediately.
“This incident shows how quickly a routine shopping trip can turn into something dangerous,” a police spokesperson said. “Trust your instincts, stay aware of your surroundings, and never hesitate to call for help.”
Local safety advocates are urging businesses to review surveillance systems and improve parking lot security as similar stalking-related incidents have been reported nationwide.
Ongoing Developments and Next Steps
York’s initial court appearance is expected later this week, where a judge will review evidence and determine whether to set bail. Authorities continue to gather witness statements and digital evidence to build a comprehensive case.
Meanwhile, the victim and her child are recovering from the trauma, supported by family and victim assistance counselors.
Conclusion
The Springfield kidnapping attempt has shocked the community, serving as a chilling reminder of the dangers posed by stalkers and predatory behavior in everyday settings. As York awaits trial, prosecutors say they intend to pursue the maximum penalty under Missouri law to ensure accountability and protect future victims.
What are your thoughts on this case and public safety around shopping areas? Share your opinions in the comments below.
