Similar incidents have been reported in Round Rock and Hutto in recent weeks.
LEANDER, Texas — An investigation is underway following a reported child abduction attempt in Leander on Friday afternoon.
According to the Leander Police Department, the incident happened around 3 p.m. in the 1800 block of Artesian Springs Crossing.
Police said a girl was walking when a man in a light-colored vehicle pulled up next to her and yelled at her to get inside. The child reportedly ran away immediately, and the vehicle sped off from the scene.
No weapons were displayed or used during the encounter, police said.
“We commend this young girl for her quick thinking and bravery,” the Leander Police Department said. “Parents, please take a moment to remind your children to stay alert and never approach or engage with strangers. Go over safe routes, reinforce the importance of running to a safe place, and always reporting anything suspicious.”
Anyone with any information or footage of the incident is asked to contact Det. John Rowe at 512-528-2865 or at jrowe@leandertx.gov.
Police in Round Rock also made an arrest after another man tried to abduct a 16-year-old last month. Jail records show that 30-year-old Joel Maske is still in jail after he allegedly tried to force a teenage girl into his car.
Maske was initially charged with felony aggravated kidnapping after being arrested on March 13. He also now faces charges of sexual conduct – indecency with a child and two charges of indecent exposure.
Other reported attempts of child abduction
Hutto police said they’re also investigating another similar “recent” incident involving two men in a white Ford transit-style van. It’s unclear if the incidents are related and Hutto police did not report when the alleged abduction attempt happened.
Meanwhile, Taylor police have asked the public to stay aware following multiple attempted abductions in Austin and Georgetown.