Suspect accused of trying to abduct boy at South Jersey Wawa taken into custody: Police

Authorities say the man offered the child candy to leave with him while the two were in the restroom.

6abc Digital Staff Image
Friday, June 2, 2023
Suspect accused of trying to abduct boy at NJ Wawa in custody: Police
New Jersey state police have taken a man into custody who is accused of trying to abduct a child in Cumberland County on Sunday.

MAURICE RIVER, New Jersey (WPVI) -- New Jersey state police have arrested and charged the man accused of trying to abduct a child in Cumberland County on Sunday.

Police said Thomas Cannon, 79, of Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, is charged with one count of endangering the welfare of a child.

Video released by police shows Cannon entering and leaving the Wawa on the 3900 block of Rt. 47 in Maurice River.

Authorities say the man offered a 7-year-old boy candy to leave with him while the two were in the restroom.

New Jersey State Police released this composite sketch and a vehicle wanted in connection with an attempted abduction on May 28, 2023, at a Wawa on Rt. 47.

When the child refused, the suspect allegedly grabbed the boy's arm and tried to take him from the store.

SEE ALSO: Man tried to abduct 7-year-old boy from New Jersey Wawa using candy: State police

The victim was able to escape and run to his mom who was using a different bathroom.

Cannon was seen leaving in a white Toyota 4Runner.

Anyone who may have additional information is asked to contact the Port Norris station at 856-785-0036.

Surveillance video shows the alleged suspect wanted in an attempted abduction at a Wawa on Rt. 47 on May 28, 2023.