Attempted Child Pickup Reported In Algonquin

Only a week after the start of school, Algonquin Police said they received a report Tuesday of a "stranger approach" from a student returning from classes.  Police said the driver of an old and rusty dark red or maroon van asked a 12 year-old Westfield Community School girl Tuesday if she wanted a ride home.

The incident occurred about 3:45 pm at the intersection of Barrett Dr. and Broadsmore Dr. Deputy Police Chief Ed Urban said the girl ran away from the driver whom she described as a male, black, bald, and clean-shaven, possibly in his 20’s or 30’s. D300 Safety Officer Gary Chester said this morning that Westfield sent a message about the incident to local parents Tuesday evening and will send a district-wide notice to parents and staff today.

Algonquin Police said parents everywhere should review safety information with their kids, especially how to react when approached by someone not known to them.

Urban said anyone with information about Tuesday's Westfield stranger approach should contact the Algonquin Police Department at (847) 658-4531.

In the pic:  The location of Tuesday's reported child-pickup attempt near Westfield School.