A child narrowly escaped a potentially harrowing abduction at the Mission Valley Mall on the afternoon of June 18. San Diego Police Department has confirmed they are delving into an attempted kidnapping case after a man allegedly tried to abduct a six-year-old girl beside her mother and sibling.

According to the mother's account detailed by the San Diego Police Department, the family was casually walking when they were approached by a man described as Hispanic, around 40 years old, and with distinct features including black collar-length hair, a beard, and glasses. Shortly after passing by, the suspect began to follow and managed to swiftly grab the child off the ground. The young girl's screams prompted him to quickly let her go and flee the area.

The SDPD noted that the suspect, last seen wearing a striking "baby blue" shirt paired with gray pants and white tennis shoes, took off westward through the mall. Despite the prompt response, the man in question has yet to be apprehended. The incident has triggered a comprehensive response from the Eastern Division Detectives, who have taken charge of the continued investigation.

Community members are now being urged to come forward with any information that might aid in the search for the perpetrator. The SDPD encourages anyone with insights to reach out to the Eastern Division at (858) 495-7900. Alternatively, reports can also be made anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477. The safety of the residents hinges, in part, on collaboration, and the authorities hope to soon bring closure to this unsettling episode.