Photo: William Thomas Cain / Getty Images News / Getty Images
Pennsylvania State Police are actively searching for a man involved in an attempted kidnapping of a nine-year-old Amish boy in Juniata County. The incident occurred on Tuesday (September 16) in Walker Township, where the boy was selling pumpkins at a stand. According to police, the suspect, described as a white male in his 30s with short dark hair, facial hair, and wearing glasses, allegedly forced the boy into a light-colored van or SUV after purchasing items from him.
The boy managed to escape from the moving vehicle a few minutes later and ran into a nearby cornfield for safety. The suspect was last seen wearing a gray long-sleeve shirt and gray pants. Authorities have released a picture of the suspect's vehicle and are urging anyone with information to contact the Pennsylvania State Police at Lewistown by calling 717-320-1010 or the PSP Tips Toll-Free number at 1-800-472-8477.
WGAL and WTAJ reported that the boy was able to return home safely after the escape. The police are reviewing nearby surveillance footage to gather more information about the suspect and the vehicle involved.
The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities as the investigation continues.