Berks Co. attempted abductions leaving parents on edge

SPRING TWP., Pa. (WPVI) -- Two attempted luring incidents in Berks County - the last happening just this morning - are just the latest in a string of abduction attempts, and parents aren't taking any chances.

Action News has learned that police are investigating a luring incident that occurred Wednesday morning in Reading.

The suspect in this case is described as a white man with dirty blonde hair.

Police are also on the hunt for the man accused of trying to pull an 11-year-old girl into his truck in Spring Township.

The suspect is described as a six-foot tall Hispanic man.

Investigators say the incident unfolded this past Monday as the youngster walked home from Whitfield Elementary School.

Spring Township Police Chief Bryan Ross explains, "Somewhere near the intersection of Belmont and Wilson he exited the vehicle and grabbed her by the arm. She indicated she yelled for help, kicked him a couple places and was able to break free and ran for help."

Authorities believe Monday's attack can be linked to six other similar attacks within a 15 mile radius since the beginning of the year.

As an earlier composite sketch reveals, the descriptions of the attacker are very similar, with most of the intended victims reporting the man was driving a black SUV with tinted windows.

Wilson School District Superintendent Dr. Rudy Ruth says all parents should turn the story into a teachable moment.

Dr. Ruth says, "Make sure you remind your children of what to do when a stranger approaches them. We do that here in the school too. But the more that we can have the same message being delivered both through the parents and through the school, that works out well."

Action News spoke with neighbors who live near the intersection where Monday's attack occurred, and they say the fact that it's happening in rural Berks County shows you it can happen anywhere.

Francine Harris says, "You don't really think it's going to happen around here, but, you know, it does. SO everybody has to keep an eye out."

Diane Wentzel tells us, "These kids, we got to keep them safe. They only have the adults to look out after them. It's up to us."

Police do not believe the Reading incident from Wednesday morning to be related to the other cases.

But anyone with information about any of the cases is asked to call the police.