Police Searching for Man Suspected of Attempted Abduction of Teen Girl

La Mesa Police are on the lookout for a white or Hispanic male, in his 30s-40s, who is suspected of trying to lure a 16-year-old girl into his car as she was walking to Friday morning.

According to police, as the teen was walking westbound in the 7500 block of of University Avenue, she was approached by the suspect. The suspect drove up next to the female and got out of his vehicle. The suspect said to the female, “Hey, get in my car.”

At that point the female ran home and contacted the polce. A search of the surrounding areas did not result in locating the suspect or his vehicle, which the teen described as as a “beat up” white, small or medium sized pick up truck. The suspect was described as unshaven and wearing a white T-shirt.

New school said that he was notified by the school's safety officer and by campus supervision. He has instructed staff to remind students of safety tips when travelling to and from campus.

The school also posted notification of the incident on its website.

There was a spate of attempted abductions during a 10-day period in mid-May in the La Mesa area, as the end of the school year approached. Grossmont principal Dan Barnes to parents reminding them not to allow their children to walk to and from school alone.

On May 18, a in connection with at least two of the harassment / attempted abduction incidents.

The investigation into Friday's incident is ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the La Mesa Police Department.

You may also call Crime Stoppers’ anonymous toll-free tip line (888) 580-TIPS (or www.sdcrimestoppers.com). You can remain anonymous, and be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000 for information in this case.