Providence police are actively searching for 45-year-old Marc Pierre, a person of interest in an alarming abduction attempt of a 10-year-old girl. Pierre is accused of attempting to kidnap the young victim as she made her way home from school, triggering a citywide manhunt.
The unsettling incident unfolded around 5:20 p.m. Wednesday on Nashua Street, when a black van approached the girl. Witnesses say a man got out of the passenger side, attempted to forcibly drag the girl toward the vehicle but she courageously fought back and managed to escape. According to NBC10 Boston, the child then ran to a nearby Sir Speedy print shop, swiftly making a call to her mother who contacted the authorities.
The Providence Police Department has released a surveillance image of Marc Pierre, urging the public to aid in his capture. Standing about six feet tall and last seen donning a long green coat, gray hooded sweatshirt, dark winter cap and green backpack, Pierre is known to patrol certain neighborhoods. "Kids are our most vulnerable population and they can't defend themselves so it is very concerning," Matthew Espeut, who works in proximity to the scene, told NBC10 Boston in a statement reflecting the community's shock and fear.
Residents and business owners in the areas Pierre frequents, specifically Nashua and North Main Street, as well as 181 Corliss Street, have been alerted to keep a vigilant eye. Police were seen combing these locales on Thursday, looking to quickly apprehend Pierre. Anyone with helpful information is asked to reach out directly to Detective Sgt. Jonathan Primiano at [email protected] or call (401) 559-2899, as 12 News reported.
The community stands staunchly by the young girl who narrowly escaped what could have been a catastrophic event. As the search intensifies, the Providence Police Department remains resolute to not only capture Pierre but also ensure the safety of every child within their jurisdiction.
