WESTMINSTER, CA – Police in Westminster are actively searching for a man who allegedly attempted to kidnap a child outside of a school last week. The unsettling incident occurred on Thursday, October 2, in the area near Brookhurst Street and Bishop Place.
Details of the Attempted Kidnapping
According to the Westminster Police Department (WPD), officers were called to the scene after reports of an attempted kidnapping that took place in the late afternoon. Police say the victim, who is described as a juvenile, was leaving school on foot around 3:40 p.m. when she walked past a man sitting in a car.
The suspect allegedly struck up a conversation with the girl, asking for directions. While speaking, he exposed his genitals to the victim, according to police. The situation escalated when the suspect exited his vehicle and reportedly demanded several times that the victim get into his car.
The Victim Escapes
As the man blocked the victim’s path and made physical contact with her, the girl managed to break free and ran eastward towards a woman walking nearby with her child. The woman, who has not yet been identified, is believed to have played a crucial role in helping the child escape the dangerous situation.
At the same time, the suspect fled the area in his car, heading westbound towards Bushard Street.
Suspect Description and Investigation
Police describe the suspect as a man approximately 5-foot-7, weighing around 200 pounds. He was wearing a white and blue short-sleeve button-down shirt, dark pants, and a face mask with printed dinosaurs covering his mouth and nose.
Authorities are also seeking the woman who assisted the victim, as she left the scene before officers arrived. Investigators believe her assistance was crucial in ensuring the victim’s safety.
Seeking Information from the Public
The Westminster Police Department is urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has any relevant information to come forward. The department is particularly interested in identifying the woman who helped the victim, as well as any other witnesses who may have been in the area at the time of the incident.
Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives at (714) 548-3784.
Call to Action
This attempted kidnapping is a chilling reminder of the importance of community vigilance. Do you have any information related to this case? Help keep our community safe by sharing what you know in the comments below or contacting the police directly.
