Update 3/5/21 11:49 p.m.: Statement from Mukilteo Mayor Jennifer Gregerson, “I hope all residents keep an eye out for vehicles and individuals matching this description. Together we can keep our kids safe.”
MUKILTEO, Wash., March 5, 2021 – The Mukilteo Police Department has received a report of what appears to be an attempted child luring in the 4800 block of 92nd Street Southwest.
Mukilteo Officers responded to the area on March 5th 2021 around 1:30 PM after a parent reported their two children encountered a male in a blue/grey 4-door sedan who “lunged” at their children. The male is described as Caucasian, around 6 feet tall with a medium frame, wearing a black hoodie with the hood up and a black ski mask.
Click here for the official press release.
The male exited his vehicle and quickly walked towards the children who ran towards 92nd Street Park. The male walked towards the children for about 15 feet before returning to his vehicle and leaving eastbound on 92nd Street Southwest.
Initial reports of the vehicle describe it as being an early 2000 model 4-door sedan with black rims and blue/grey (possibly matte grey) in color. The vehicle had garbage throughout the interior and the windows were not tinted.
The mother of the two children posted on social media that she commends the quick thinking action by her 11-year-old sons.
“My mama heart is racing and I’m just so thankful our boys were together and were watching their surroundings,” said the mother who will remain unidentified.
She asks that neighbors remain vigilant and to assist the investigation by reviewing home security cameras.
“Please keep your kids close and your eyes out for anything. Please check your exterior security cameras if you are in the area.”
According to the boys mother, one of her sons yelled at his brother to run. This brave action may have prevented a tragedy.
The Mukilteo Police Department shared with the Lynnwood Times the following recommendations from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on teaching your child the following tips to help prevent abduction:
- Stay away from strangers. Explain what makes a person a stranger. Note that even someone with a familiar face is a stranger if youdo not know him or her well.
- Stay away from anyone who is following you on foot or in a car. Don’t get close to them or feel as though you must answer any questions they ask you.
- Run and scream if someone tries to force you to go somewhere with them or tries to push you into a car.
- Memorize a secret code word. Tell your child not to go with anyone under any circumstances unless that person also knows this code word.
- Adults shouldn’t ask children for help. For example, a child shouldn’t trust grown-ups who ask kids for directions or for help finding a puppy or kitten. A child who is approached in this way should tell the person, “Wait here and I’ll check with my mom or dad,” and then find his or her parents right away.
- Ask for help when you are lost. If you get lost in a public place, immediately ask someone who works there for help.
- Always ask for permission before going anywhere with anybody. Ask a parent or the grown-up in charge before leaving the yard or play area, or before going into someone’s home. Do not accept any unplanned offers for a ride—from someone known or unknown.
- Always tell a parent where you are going, how you will get there, who is going with you, and when you will be back. Be home at the agreed-upon time or else find a way to contact home directly.
If your child is lost or missing, being able to provide information quickly to the authorities will save them valuable time in searching for your child:
- Be prepared with a good description of your child. Have a close-up photograph of your child taken every 6 months. Keep track of and write down details about your child’s appearance, such as height and weight, eye color, birthmarks, scars, and identifiable mannerisms (such as hair-twisting).
- Have your child fingerprinted. Check with your local police department for instructions.
- Stay calm. You are more likely to remember helpful details if you can remain calm.
The Mukilteo Police Department is requesting any information from any witnesses who may have been in the area at the time of the incident.
Please email crimetips@mukilteowa.gov with additional information or for immediate assistance call our non-emergency number at 425-407-3999 to speak with an Officer.
Author: Mario Lotmore
