OPP probe attempted abduction of student in northwestern Ontario

The back of a police vehicle with officers visible in the background. (File photo/Supplied/Ontario Provincial Police)

Ontario Provincial Police are investigating an attempted abduction of a student from an elementary school in the northwestern community of Longlac, Ont., and are asking for the public’s help.

The incident occurred on May 6 at about 8:45 a.m. in the area of Nishnabe Miikena Road and Picnic Point Road.

Police say a student from Notre Dame de Fatima French School was approached by a beige-coloured vehicle occupied by two male suspects.

“One male was said to have exited the vehicle, grabbed the student by the hand and attempted to pull her toward the vehicle,” OPP said in a news release.

The student was able to escape and safely reach the school.

Suspect descriptions

The OPP has released descriptions of both suspects.

The driver of the vehicle is described as a Caucasian male in his late 30s to early 40s with thin, light-coloured hair, wearing a white jacket with red detailing around the cuffs.

The passenger is described as a tall African American male in his late 30s to early 40s with black hair, wearing a black shirt with a white cat on the front, a black hat and an unzipped brown sweater.

Public assistance requested

Police are continuing to investigate and are seeking assistance from the public.

“The OPP reminds all members of the public to always be aware of their personal safety and to be extremely vigilant when approached by unknown individuals,” said police.

“Talk to children about stranger safety,” added OPP in a related social media post.

Anyone who may have been in the area of Nishnabe Miikena Road and Picnic Point Road that has dashcam footage or anyone in the area who has home surveillance video is being asked to contact police.

“Report any suspicious vehicles or activity,” said police.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.