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Elementary student in Grapevine thwarted abduction by running away from driver, cops say

Grapevine police will be increasing uniformed patrols at Dove Elementary and other schools after a child reported that as he was walking home from school Tuesday afternoon, February 14, 2023, a man drove up next to him and yelled for the boy to get in his car. The boy was able to run away and make it home safely.
Grapevine police will be increasing uniformed patrols at Dove Elementary and other schools after a child reported that as he was walking home from school Tuesday afternoon, February 14, 2023, a man drove up next to him and yelled for the boy to get in his car. The boy was able to run away and make it home safely. Courtesy: Fort Worth Star-Telegram archives

A student at Dove Elementary in Grapevine reported that as he was walking home Tuesday afternoon, a man drove up next to him and yelled for the boy to get into his car.

The boy was able to run away, avoid being abducted and make it home, authorities said.

Grapevine police said they will be increasing uniformed patrols before and after school at local campuses.

The boy described the man’s vehicle as a black Jeep or SUV with an empty (spare tire) tire rack on the back. Officers searched the area but did not find the vehicle.

Anyone who sees a vehicle near Dove Elementary matching this description is asked to call Grapevine police immediately.

Grapevine police said residents may notice a heightened police presence around schools.

Parents are also encouraged to talk with students about tips safety and stranger danger:

Do not hesitate to run away from a situation where you feel unsafe.

Stay aware of your surroundings.

If you think a car is following you, run away.

Always tell a trusted adult what happened.

Make a list of safe places you can run to along your route home.

This story was originally published February 15, 2023 at 5:52 AM.

Domingo Ramirez Jr.
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
Domingo Ramirez Jr. was a breaking news reporter for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram and spent more than 35 years in journalism.
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