Jonathan Gamez-Arias charged with attempted kidnapping at Jeanne-Mance Park

MONTREAL – Jonathan Gamez-Arias, 24, has been charged with attempted kidnapping after allegedly approaching a seven-year-old girl in Jeanne-Mance Park Saturday.

He faces a maximum possible sentence of 10 years in jail.

According to police, the incident happened at 2 p.m. when the suspect walked into the park via Esplanade Avenue and grabbed the girl, who was with her family.

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WATCH BELOW: Attempted kidnapping at Jeanne-Mance Park

0:50 Suspect in custody after attempted kidnapping in Jeanne-Mance Park

A family member intervened and held on to the suspect who only managed to run a few metres.

Bystanders, including former Montreal Canadiens Georges Laraque, quickly jumped in to assist and helped restrain the suspect until police arrived.

Gamez-Arias will remain in police custody, pending a psychological evaluation.

His next hearing is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Tuesday.