News

Community on alert after attempted kidnapping in Armstrong County

APOLLO, Pa. — Apollo police are searching for the man who attempted to lure a girl into his vehicle Thursday morning.

The news of the attempted kidnapping has many parents on alert.

"Told everyone to watch out. There’s a four-door silver car with a black male that tried to lure a teenage girl into his car," Rebecca Reith said.

Police said the incident happened around 10:40 a.m. at the corner of Armstrong Avenue and North Fourth Street.

The teen described the man as a black male, possibly in his 20s, wearing a black and gray hat and speaking with a foreign accent. She said the man pulled up beside her in a silver four-door sedan

"He was asking her if she needed a ride home and what her name was" Apollo police Sgt. Jarred Kier said.

When the girl declined the ride, police said the man drove toward Route 65.

The girl’s grandfather witnessed the interaction and immediately called police.

Police have issued a message to parents to be extra cautious.

"Keep your children close. If they're walking on the street, try to be in a populated area. Make sure you know where they are at all times," Kier said.

Apollo police said they take these reports seriously and are taking all necessary steps to find the man.