Delaware State Police are investigating an attempted kidnapping of a child that occurred last night in Smyrna.
On August 24, 2024, at approximately 8:41 p.m., troopers responded to Spruce Court in Holly Hills Estates in Smyrna for a suspicious person. When troopers arrived, they learned that an unknown white male suspect approached a 12-year-old and began to ask the child questions. While the suspect was asking questions, he grabbed the child by the arm. The child was able to get away and call for help. Troopers and detectives searched the area for the suspect but were unable to locate him. The child was not hurt during the incident.
The suspect is described as a white male, thin build, approximately 20-30 years of age, 5’10’’- 6’0’’ tall, blue or green eyes, dirty blonde hair, and no facial hair. He was last seen wearing black pants and a black hooded sweatshirt.
Delaware State Police Troop 3 Criminal Investigations Unit is continuing its investigation and urges anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant information to contact Detective S. Ryan at (302) 698-8443. Information may also be provided by sending a private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police or contacting Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
If you or someone you know is a victim or witness of a crime or have lost a loved one to a sudden death and need assistance, the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit / Delaware Victim Center is available to offer you support and resources 24 hours a day through a toll-free hotline at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). You may also email the Victim Services Unit at DSP_VictimServicesMail@delaware.gov.