Bloomington police have identified the suspect in Wednesday’s attempted child abduction as an elderly man who was just looking for his lost hat.

Parents were warned of a potential kidnapping attempt after an elementary student was approached by a man near the bus stop at 99th Street and Rich Road on Wednesday afternoon. Police later determined that the man, who lives nearby, had been out walking earlier in the day and misplaced his hat. He drove the same route asking residents, including the child leaving the bus stop, if they’d seen it.

When contacted by police, the man was apologetic and said he understood the concern he caused. He will not face any charges.

LIZ SAWYER