Lemont police are urging residents to be cautious and make sure their children are aware of appropriate safety measures, in the wake of the attempted abduction of a 16-year-old girl in the southwest suburb last week.
Wednesday around 7 p.m., a man in an older model, dark green SUV pulled over and asked a 16-year-old girl for directions in the 500 block of First Street. Police described the man as white, with close-cropped hair and facial stubble.
The man got out of the SUV, grabbed the girl's arm and tried to force her into his vehicle, police said. The girl was able to escape and immediately called the Lemont Police Department to report the incident. Police are investigating.
Police are asking anyone who may have information about the incident or the suspect call (630) 257-2229.
Police are urging residents to discuss tips for staying safe with their children. Kids and teens who have cell phones are carrying a safety tool, police say, and parents should talk about calling 911 in an emergency and make sure they understand the importance of checking in with their parents.
Police also encourage parents to exercise some age-old cautionary measures, such as never approaching a vehicle, not accepting rides from strangers, and if they are approached, to stay alert, because it may be a trick or lure.
