Reported Child Abduction Attempt In Highland Park Found Not Credible

HIGHLAND PARK, IL — A report of an attempted child abduction in Highland Park on Wednesday was found to e untrue, police said after an investigation.

The child, an elementary school student, was dropped off by the bus at a bus stop near Ridge Road and Devonshire Court at about 2:45 p.m. According to the student, a white box truck with noticeable rust near the windows pulled up close to him after they exited the bus.

The truck's occupant, who was described as a white man with a long black beard, rolled down the window and said, "Hey kid, get in the car."

Based on investigators' review of available audio and video footage, police identified the truck and driver. According to authorities, while the vehicle was in the area at the time, video and audio from the truck's cabin indicate that nothing was said.

Investigators determined there was no attempt to lure the child into the vehicle.

"The City shares information about active investigations as appropriate to help residents understand potential safety issues and make informed decisions for themselves and their families. Fortunately, the investigation determined there was no risk to the student in this case," officials said in a statement.

Highland Park police encouraged parents to use this incident as a reminder to talk with children about staying safe in uncomfortable circumstances.

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children recommends that parents teach children to run away from and report behaviors and situations that make them uncomfortable. Most child abductions involve a relative or someone the child knows, authorities said, so it is important that children know what to do in dangerous situations.

Parents should also make sure their children know their full names, home addresses, telephone numbers and how to dial 911 in the event that a parent or guardian is not the person reporting the situation.

Some tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children include:

• Teach kids about trusted adults, and provide examples of trusted adults in the absence of a parent.
• Don’t talk to adults who try to talk to you while you are playing outside or while you are walking home, even if they are asking for help. Adults ask adults for help, not kids.
• If an adult continues trying to talk to you or stops their vehicle, run home or run to the nearest public place and immediately report what has happened.
• Never go with a person without permission from your parent or guardian.
• It is best not to walk alone. Walk with a friend or a group of students.
• If you have a cell phone, call 911 immediately if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable.
• Try to remember as much as you can about what happened and tell a trusted adult.