Lane County Sheriff’s Office had a call at Emerald Park (on Lake Drive) today at about 1:30 p.m. of a suspicious male. The male reportedly was in a tree then jumped out at a 12-year-old boy and his 2nd grade cousin as they passed by. The male had a vehicle near the tree and pointed to it asking them if they wanted a ride. The 12-year-old said no, they both left the area and called one of the boy’s mothers immediately. She notified LCSO and the River Road Parks.
At about 1:50 p.m. a subject matching the same clothing description was reportedly hanging around the St. Vincent De Paul on Division Avenue. Eugene Police patrol checked the area without locating him. So far, there has been only one report of the male contacting kids, which was at Emerald Park. Lane County Sheriff’s Office did respond to check the area and did not locate the male either.
He is described as follows:
White male 30-40 years old, shorter than average stature, and with a medium build. He has short, possibly buzz-cut, light-brown hair, and was last seen wearing black sunglasses that had the words “Oregon Ducks” along the ear piece, an “Oregon Duck” sweatshirt of unknown color, and dark, baggy jeans. The vehicle grey compact pick-up truck, possibly a Toyota. It had the appearance of being a work truck and was well used.
GENERAL PERSONAL SAFETY TIPS
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times
• Do not get into someone’s car even if they display a weapon. It is better to fight back in the street where help is closer at hand and other people may hear your calls for help.
• Walk confidently and don’t avoid eye contact
• Don’t let strangers into your ‘space.’ Keep plenty of distance between yourself and people you don’t wish to approach you.
• Don’t stop to talk with strangers asking for directions or other types of help as this can be a ploy to get close for an attack.
• If you feel you are in danger or being followed, call 9-1-1
• If grabbed, fight back and make as much noise as possible.
• Use the buddy system when walking after dark. You should know the person you are walking with well enough to trust them.
• Walk in lighted areas as much as possible and don’t walk too close to bushes, alleyways or other places where attackers can conceal themselves
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