Danvers Police Increase Presence After Suspicious Man At School

DANVERS, MA — Parents can expect an increased staff and police presence when they pick their kids up at the Great Oak Elementary School in Danvers Wednesday. In a note to parents, Principal Martha Jancaitis said police were investigating a report of a suspicious vehicle near the school when students were dismissed Tuesday. A man driving the van tried to wave a student over to his school at dismissal time, then fled when he saw the boy's mother waiting nearby.

"Please have a conversation with your child(ren) about safety with strangers and the need to be aware of one's surroundings," Jancaitis wrote. "We will be increasing staff presence at dismissal, and continue to work with the police department to ensure everyone's safety."

The van was with a blue and green "wave" logo on the side. The van also had blue lettering and ladders stored on top. The student described the man as Hispanic and said he had a moustache.

Anyone with information or concerns is being asked to call the Danvers Police Department at 978-774-1212 and inform the school as well.