WINNIPEG — Police are asking for the public’s help locating a suspect after an 11-year-old boy escaped an attempted abduction on Saturday afternoon.
The incident occurred in the area of Simpson Avenue and Besant Street, as the boy was walking alone. The suspect drove by the victim, got out of his van and according to police reports, yelled to the boy “Get in my car now.”
The boy tried to run away but had his right wrist grabbed by the suspect and was dragged towards the vehicle. The victim started yelling and hitting back against the suspect’s arm and was eventually able to break free.
The boy suffered a minor injury in the struggle. He then ran home and told a parent about the incident.
The suspect is described as 24 years old, with a medium build, fair complexion and between 6’3″ to 6’6″ in height.
Police said he has a dark, thin goatee and moustache as well as stained, yellow teeth. On his right forearm, there is a tattoo of a cross, with a chain looping through it which is black and white in colour. He was last seen wearing a black hoodie, black pants with a hole in the left knee and black shoes with white trim in the sole area.
The suspect’s vehicle is described as a newer-model black van with tinted windows. Rust and red colouring was also visible on the rear bumper.
Anyone with information is being asked to contact detectives at 204-986-2857 or Crime Stoppers at 204-786-8477.