The Berkeley Police Department is actively investigating an attempted kidnapping incident that occurred near Ruth Acty Elementary School, located in Berkeley, California. School officials have confirmed the incident, stating that an unknown individual approached a student after school hours on Monday. Fortunately, the student is safe and unharmed.

Details of the Incident

According to officials from the Berkeley Unified School District, the incident occurred when the student was walking on Rose Street. The suspect, described as being in a white van or SUV, approached the student and reportedly asked them to enter the vehicle. However, the student wisely chose not to comply and promptly ran home.

Safety Measures Implemented

In response to the incident, school authorities have taken proactive measures to ensure the safety of students. Staff members have been alerted to be vigilant and instructed to immediately contact 911 if they observe any suspicious activity involving students and unknown vehicles.

Advice from Authorities

The Berkeley Police Department advises that if a student believes someone may be following them, they should immediately start heading toward the nearest crowded place and call 911 for help, emphasized school officials in a statement. They also urged the community to review safety protocols with students, emphasizing the importance of staying in groups, rejecting offers of rides from strangers, and seeking help loudly if feeling threatened.

Safety Tips for Students and Families

The Berkeley Unified School District has provided the following safety guidelines for students and their families:

• If followed by a stranger in a car, change direction and seek safety.
• Never leave school premises with an unfamiliar individual.
• Inform a trusted adult about any suspicious individuals near school or public areas frequented by children.
• Refuse items offered by strangers when traveling to and from school.
• Avoid engaging with strangers and immediately seek assistance if approached.

Concerns Over Intersection Safety

In another related incident, a Berkeley woman tragically lost her life weeks after being struck by a vehicle while jogging near the intersection of Marin Avenue and Oxford Street in the Berkeley Hills. Residents have voiced concerns about the safety of this intersection, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures in the area.

Prioritizing Safety in the Community

As investigations continue into the attempted kidnapping near Ruth Acty Elementary School and concerns persist regarding intersection safety, prioritizing community safety remains paramount. Vigilance, adherence to safety protocols, and collaboration between law enforcement, educational institutions, and the community are essential in safeguarding individuals, especially children, from potential risks and harm.

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