Man in Van Tries to Kidnap 11-Year-Old Girl in Highland, Suspect Gets Away

A man in a van tried to kidnap an 11-year-old girl in Highland on Wednesday afternoon and the suspect got away, the Sheriff's Department advised about 24 hours later.

The attempted kidnapping occurred about 3:30 p.m. Wednesday in the area of Sterling Avenue south of Base Line, Highland Station personnel said in a statement.

The girl was walking home from school when a man in black facial covering, black hood, black gloves and black clothing came up from behind and grabbed her, deputies said.

"The subject pulled the victim toward a vehicle, a dark colored full size van, which was parked nearby," deputies said. "The suspect seemed startled by something, released the victim and ran toward the vehicle. The victim ran home and arrived safely without injury."

The man was described as 5 feet 8 to 5 feet 9 inches tall, 160 to 175 pounds, possibly Hispanic, in all black attire.

"Similar incidents have occurred recently in neighboring jurisdictions," deputies said, without providing specifics. "Parents and caregivers are urged to have their children walk in pairs or small groups, and preferably with an adult and to report any suspicious persons or vehicles immediately."

Anyone with more information was urged to call the Highland Station at (909) 425-9793. A reward is available for information leading to the arrest of the suspect through We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME. Tipsters can remain anonymous.

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