Suspicious Person in Van Approached Trinity Student: Police

River Forest, IL - A Trinity High School student was approached April 28 by a suspicious man who got out of a van in the 7500 block of North Avenue.

The student told police the white utility van was headed eastbound around 3:35 p.m. on North Avenue when it stopped next to her as she was walking on the sidewalk, according to River Forest police.

The man, who was wearing dark clothes and a beanie hat, approached the student while two or three other men waited in the van.

The man didn't say anything to the student, and she ran away, police reported. There is no further description available of the van or the men.

An email sent to the River Forest School District 90 community offers the following safety tips for children:

• Practice the Buddy System. Always try to walk in groups or with at least one other person.
• Walk on sidewalks and other open areas rather than alleys that have less visibility.
• 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 help you, go into a store or other public place, 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 if something happens. Parents should contact the police and the school.

Map courtesy of River Forest police.