Police investigate attempting child luring in north Seattle

SEATTLE -- Police are investigating an attempted luring of a 14-year-old girl Monday morning in north Seattle.

According to Seattle police, the girl was walking to school along Greenwood Ave. around 7:30 a.m. when a man in a white Toyota Camry pulled up next to her and said that school had been canceled. He offered her a ride home, but she continued on to school.

The girl then called a family member who reported the incident to police.

Officers searched the area but were not able to locate the suspect.

The suspect was described as a white male, 30 to 40 years old, with a thin build, green eyes, and thick glasses.

Anyone with information is asked to call the SPD Special Assault Unit at 206-684-5575.

Here's a copy of the letter sent to parents:

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I want to share with you some information on a recent incident that has affected one of our students while walking to school. I’m sending you this letter to update you on the facts and to assure you that we are doing everything we can to support our students, and to suggest ways you may help your children.

This morning on the way to school one of our students reported that an unknown white male in a white older sedan attempted to lure her into his car by stating, “school is cancelled, get in the car and I will drive you home.” The student responded appropriately and remained safe.

The Seattle Police Department was notified and they are continuing to gather additional information and working closely with the District’s Safety and Security Department. Our school is receiving additional support from the Safety and Security Department while our students are in transit to and from school.

Student safety is a top priority of our school and the district. At Broadview Thompson we want to make sure that students feel safe and are safe. Staff will be discussing personal safety with our students today and throughout the week. During these discussions our goal is to provide an opportunity for students to talk about their concerns and give them additional personal safety skills.

You can also help your children simply by talking and listening to them. Attached is a flyer adapted from Seattle Police Department’s “Personal Safety for Children” website that may be helpful in family discussions. We encourage you to have proactive conversations with your children regarding safety and to call us if we can help in any way.

Sincerely,

R.J. Sammons
Principal
Broadview Thomson K-8