Attempted abduction in own driveway

HADDONFIELD, N.J. - May 8, 2008 Haddonfield police have released a sketch of the man wanted in the attempted abduction.

At 10:30 Wednesday morning on the 100 block of Park Place, a white van or small SUV pulled into a driveway.

The resident came out and the man asked for directions; she was then pushed into the vehicle.

"A struggle ensued, he dragged her into the van, and drove off with her. She was lucky enough to break free of his grip and get out of the van," Chief Richard Tsonis said.

The woman told Action News as the car started to pull away, she kicked at the gear shift and managed to open the passenger side door. She fled to a neighbor's home where she called 911.

When word of the incident got out, Haddonfield schools sent e-mails to parents as a precaution. It was also an opportunity to remind children to stay away from strangers.

"If a person asks you about a pet, or has candy to offer you, stay away, go in the opposite direction, and always keep walking with friends," Superintendent Alan Fegley said.

Residents are concerned about the random nature of the attack in usually safe Haddonfield.

"People do stop and ask for directions, that's what's scary about that…you don't want to ignore somebody, you want to be helpful," Pam Dipadova said.

The suspect is Hispanic, 5'8", 150 pounds, with an athletic build, about 25-30 years old, and has dark brown hair and eyes

Police say the white van had a child seat in the back. Anyone with information should call Haddonfield police at 856 429 4700.