Putnam City Elementary Student Reports Attempted Abduction

A Western Oaks Elementary School student says she was nearly abducted as she walked home from school.

According to Putnam City Schools, the young girl reported a man chased her and grabbed her arm.

It happened on Wednesday, January 25, around 4:00 p.m. near the Williamsburg apartment complex, which is located across the street from the school. The girl said she hit the man and screamed, broke free and ran home.

The student described the man as being under 6 feet tall and wearing a brown hoodie with a black patch on it.

The school sent a letter home to all parents, alerting them of the incident.

In the letter, Principal Drew Eichelberger states the importance of talking to children about their safety.

"It's our belief that children need to be smart, not scared," Principal Eichelberger said in the letter. "Make sure your children know "stranger danger" precautions. Teach and remind your children what choices help keep them safe, and take whatever steps you can to add to their safety."

The school and police also stress that if at any time you become aware of a suspicious incident, report it to the police and the school, as soon as possible.