Police received information that a North Eugene High School student was walking home from school on September 27 and traveling east along the southern sidewalk near the intersection of River Road and Silver Lane when an unknown man made verbal contact with the 14-year-old female. The man continued to question the female from his vehicle, which was stopped at the crosswalk in the eastbound lane, asking her if she needed a ride and attempting to get her address.
The young woman crossed the street and was able to get to a safe area. The vehicle is described as a dark blue or green vehicle, with sparkling metallic paint, larger than a Ford Explorer and possibly an SUV or truck. The man was observed to be the only person in the vehicle and is described as a white male subject with average skin tone, medium length light brown hair and was wearing a baseball cap at time of incident and did not have facial hair.
If anyone has information in this case, they should call 541.682.5111.
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