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Parents and the community of Newport came together today to watch over the Children at Richey Elementary School.

A day after a man reportedly tried to abduct a child near the school parents decided to join their children on their walk to and from to school on Friday.

On Thursday Newport Police Patrol Officers responded to the area of N Augustine Street and E Christian Street regarding a possible child abduction. Upon arrival, Patrol Officers made contact with the juvenile victim and the victim’s mother.

The victim advised that while walking home from the Richey Elementary School at approximately 3:50 P.M., she was grabbed by an unknown male. The victim was able to break free and contacted the police. The suspect is described as a dark skin black male wearing a dark-colored shirt with short braided hair. The suspect was operating a light-colored work van with no identifying characteristics.

I just want to say that our small town came together in a time of need to ensure all of these innocent babies got home safe! Couldn’t be more proud to say I’m from Newport, said one member of the community.

Original Report

On October 24th, 2019 Newport Police Patrol Officers responded to the area of N Augustine Street and E Christian Street regarding a possible child abduction. Upon arrival, Patrol Officers made contact with the juvenile victim and the victim’s mother.

The victim advised that while walking home from the Richey Elementary School at approximately 3:50 P.M., she was grabbed by an unknown male. The victim was able to break free and contacted the police. The suspect is described as a dark skin black male wearing a dark-colored shirt with short braided hair. The suspect was operating a light-colored work van with no identifying characteristics.

The Newport Police Department urges parents to speak with their children regarding the dangers of walking alone and the importance of being aware of their surroundings.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Patrolman Jones at (302) 995-1411 or Ryan.Jones@cj.state.de.us.

The Red Clay School District has issued the following statement regarding this incident:

“Good evening, this is a message from the Red Clay Consolidated School District.

Out of precaution, we want to make you aware that according to the Newport Police Department, there was an attempted abduction of a student who was walking home from school in the Newport area today. This incident is under investigation.

Student safety is our top priority in Red Clay. We are asking all families to please be vigilant and report any suspicious activity in your area to your local police department.

Please also be sure to talk to your child about being safe while at the bus stop and while walking to and from school.

Thank you.”