Young girl forced into car and driven away as police launch urgent appeal
A young girl was subjected to a harrowing ordeal when she was forced into a car near a school, prompting an urgent appeal from the police who have released a description of the driver.
Authorities are calling for witnesses after the attempted abduction occurred in Harlow, Essex, last week, with the girl reportedly managing to flee during the distressing event. The incident saw the child put into a grey Audi A4 on First Avenue, close to Mark Hall Academy, sometime between 3pm and 3.45pm on Friday (July 4).
She was initially taken away but succeeded in escaping by herself to find assistance. Harlow CID detectives are now delving into the case and searching for those responsible.
The man driving the vehicle was said to be clad in a black Nike tracksuit and sported gingery brown hair, and the police are keen to locate both him and the Audi.
Detective Inspector Clare Lawrence from Essex Police has stated that efforts are underway to identify both the driver and the car, while also ensuring the welfare of the girl and her family, as reported by Essex Live, reports the Mirror.
She commented: "I know this incident has caused concern within the community. Incidents like this are actually really rare but we know it can be worrying to see, hear, and read about the details.
"My team is working hard to identify the vehicle and the people involved. We're also safeguarding the girl and supporting her and her family.
"I believe there will have been a number of people in the area at the time this incident happened and think someone will have seen something that will help our investigation. If that's you, I need you to come forward."
An Essex Police statement from their Harlow District Facebook page revealed: "It was reported the girl was forced into a grey Audi A4 in First Avenue, near the Mark Hall Academy, between 3pm and 3.45pm on Friday 4 July.
"Detectives from Harlow CID are investigating the incident and working to establish what led up to it. The driver of the car was described a man wearing a black Nike tracksuit and had gingery brown hair."
The force continued: "If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us. Please quote the crime reference number 42/93677/25.
"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service which is available 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week.
"Visit https://esxpol.uk/2sBDb to find out more about our online reporting services. If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111."
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