Two girls on their way to Forest View Park bolted and screamed when a stranger in an SUV pulled up alongside them Monday evening, and police say both made it away unharmed. The 11-year-old and 13-year-old told officers they believed the driver was trying to abduct them, prompting a fast response from Forest View police and a neighborhood-wide search for the vehicle and its driver.
According to Forest View police, the incident happened around 7:30 p.m. near 45th Street and Wisconsin Avenue when a red or maroon SUV came up next to the girls as they walked. Investigators described the driver as a heavyset Hispanic man in his 40s with longer, shaggy black hair and are asking residents to review any doorbell or home-security video recorded between 7:33 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. that evening, according to FOX 32 Chicago.
Thirteen-year-old Gretchen McDade told FOX 32 Chicago, "We were on our way to the park when the SUV pulled up alongside us," while 11-year-old Emy Gil said they ran because they feared the man was trying to take them. A Forest View officer who happened to be nearby heard the screams and rushed over almost immediately. The girls said they are still shaken, but grateful they got away safely.
Police ask neighbors to check cameras
Forest View police are urging anyone who lives near the park to check doorbell and security cameras from that roughly 12-minute window and share any relevant clips with investigators. Tips and anonymous video submissions can be sent through the village's Report a Crime Tip tools or by calling the Forest View non-emergency line.
Context and safety tips
Similar attempted-luring reports have surfaced around the Chicago area this year, and law-enforcement officials say quick reporting and clear camera footage often make or break these cases. A recent attempted-luring case in Portage Park underscored how critical it is for neighbors to check their devices and call police when something seems off, according to NBC Chicago. Parents and guardians are encouraged to remind kids to walk in groups, avoid engaging with unknown drivers, and call 911 immediately in an emergency.
Anyone with video or information about the SUV or the driver is asked to contact the Forest View Police Department's non-emergency number or submit tips through the village website. If you believe a child is in immediate danger, call 911 right away.
