Eugene Police are investigating a report of a 12-year-old girl who reported that a man driving a bluish/green sedan had attempted to coerce her into his vehicle after taking her photo and telling her how beautiful she was. The vehicle had been parked in the parking lot of the Ridgeline Montessori School. The report came in on March 12 at 3:49 p.m. The girl did an excellent job of telling the man no, walking away and calling 911. She provided a good description.
Police are continuing to investigate this incident. The man is described as a white male, age 45-50, with a medium to heavy build, reddish/brown hair with a bald spot, and scruffy facial hair. He was driving a Chevy Malibu.
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