Kidnapping Attempt At TJ Maxx Thwarted After Child Screamed And Ran Away

Authorities in Indiana are asking the public for help identifying a suspect who attempted to kidnap a girl at a TJ Maxx in Fort Wayne on Monday (April 29).

The suspect appeared to be in his mid-20s and was wearing a black jacket, ripped jeans, and a black baseball cap. Fort Wayne Police Sgt. Jeremy Webb said that the man grabbed a 13-year-old girl from behind and wrapped his arms around her. As he tried to drag her away, the girl screamed, startling the suspect.

He then released her, ran out of the store, and fled on foot through the parking lot.

Officials released surveillance photos of the suspect entering the store. Anybody with information about his identity is asked to call the Fort Wayne Police Department at 260-427-1201.

Authorities said they do not believe the latest kidnapping attempt is related to several other kidnapping attempts in the area that occurred in March.