Police in Los Angeles are on the lookout for a man who was caught on camera trying to kidnap an 11-year-old girl as she was walking home from school. The incident took place at around 3:15 p.m. on Oct. 21 in the Wilmington area near M Street and Gulf Avenue, according to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
The video footage shows a man, described as a White or Hispanic male in his 20s or 30s, approaching the girl from behind and inappropriately touching her. Fortunately, a quick-thinking neighbor named Ivonne noticed what was happening and intervened, shouting at the man to leave the girl alone.
The suspect tried to pass off the girl as his niece to Ivonne before fleeing the scene in a gray Nissan Kicks. Ivonne and her brother attempted to follow the suspect, but he managed to escape. The LAPD has released photos of the suspect and is seeking the public’s help in identifying him.
Ivonne, a longtime resident of the neighborhood, expressed gratitude for being in the right place at the right time to rescue the girl from a potentially dangerous situation. The victim, who was believed to be a student at Wilmington Middle School, was unharmed thanks to Ivonne’s intervention.
The suspect is described as approximately 5 feet, 10 inches tall and weighing around 240 pounds. His vehicle is said to have a space wheel mounted on the rear passenger side. The LAPD has classified the man as a sexual battery and attempted kidnapping suspect.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the suspect to contact Harbor Area detectives at 310-726-7900. Those who wish to remain anonymous can reach out to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or visit www.lacrimestoppers.org to submit a tip.
This disturbing incident serves as a reminder of the importance of staying vigilant and looking out for one another, especially when it comes to the safety of children in our communities. It also highlights the critical role that bystanders can play in preventing crimes and protecting those in need. Let us all strive to create safer environments for everyone, where acts of kindness and bravery like Ivonne’s are celebrated and encouraged.