Police received information from multiple Sheldon High School students in the last week of suspicious behavior involving an unknown man associated with a metallic colored van as they were walking home from school. In one incident, the 14-year-old was followed by the van as she walked on Regency Drive, and continued to follow her at walking pace until she veered off her normal route to get away from it. In the other incident, the 16-year-old was approached by the man on foot in the parking lot of Bi-Mart on Willakenzie Road and he continued to ask her if she needed a ride, and pointed toward the van. The juvenile attempted to avoid contact and left toward a nearby group of students.
The man is described as a white male above the age of 50 with grayish-brown hair, partially bald, some facial hair and a “beer belly”. He was observed in one incident to be wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt with the hood back. The van is described as an older model van with tinted windows with gold-silver type color.
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