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.
WATCH BELOW: Attempted kidnapping at 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.