Attempted Luring by Masked Man Near Wilson

A white male wearing a bandana covering his nose and mouth attempted to lure three Wilson School students into his car Thursday morning.

Police Captain Clifford Autcher said three students were walking to Wilson and were approached by the man at the intersection of Kimbell and Harrison this morning. He stopped his vehicle and asked them if they wanted a ride to school. The students ran away from the vehicle and went straight to Wilson. At least two of the students are described as being in fifth grade.

The driver is described as a white male in his 40s who was wearing black gloves and a bandana over his noise and mouth. He was driving an older, tan SUV which resembled a Chevrolet Suburban and had New York State license plates. The car had damage to the passenger side door. Autcher did not know what type of damage.

Police are currently on the lookout for the vehicle and have posted police officers at all schools for Thursday afternoon and Friday. The driver drove away after the students ran.

Wilson principal Joeseph Malanga sent an email to parents this morning warning them to the attempted luring, calling it a "stranger danger." He used the letter to remind parents that they need to reinforce safety issues with their students including attempted lurings. Principals at the other schools have also emailed parents about the incident.

"This is the perfect time to review at home what your child should do in the event of a stranger danger situation," Malanga wrote. "I have listed for you several suggestions that our teachers will review with their students as well. Reinforcement at home is extremely important."

Among the tips Malanga recommended to parents are to tell students to move quickly away when approached by strangers and to inform the nearest adult, be is a parent, teacher or crossing guard.