Police are investigating the alleged abduction and assault of a 13-year-old girl in suburban Oak Park Monday.
The young teen told authorities she was grabbed from behind and taken to a red Toyota around 4 p.m. in the 600 block of Washington Boulevard, authorities said.
The girl told officers she was eventually able to flee from the vehicle and run to a friend’s house, where she called police.
The teen was taken to Oak Park Hospital, where she was treated and released to her mother.
The suspect was described as a mixed-race man, standing about 6-feet tall. Police said the teen could not provide a more detailed description at the time.
Oak Park police increased patrols around all schools in the area Tuesday.
School officials also sent out safety guidelines for students including:
- Walk on sidewalks and other open areas rather than alleys that have less visibility.
- Always try to walk in groups or with at least one other person.
- Be aware of your surroundings and any strangers who are nearby.
- If you have a concern about another person near you, go to a neighbor’s house, find an adult to assist you, or go back to school.
- Never approach a vehicle unknown to you even if the occupant speaks to you.
- Yell loudly and run if you feel you are in danger.
- Be sure to tell your parents/guardians if something happens. Parents/guardians should contact the police and the school.
Anyone with information is being asked to call the Oak Park Police Department at (708) 386-1636.
