RCMP are investigating after a trio of children reported a man trying to lure them near Harwood Elementary School Tuesday.
The three kids were coming home from school around 3 p.m. when they called an adult to say a man tried to get them into his truck Dec. 2.
The driver was described as an older Caucasian man. Police were notified shortly after and officers made patrols in the area but didn’t locate the vehicle.
“We are working closely with School District 22 as we continue to investigate this incident,” said Const. Chris Terleski, media relations officer. “The students handled the situation exactly as they should by keeping their distance, sticking together, and telling an adult. Knowing how to safely interact with strangers is an incredibly important skill for our kids to have. Not only do we need to teach them safety strategies, but we need to remind them on a regular basis so they’re able to recognize and avoid potentially unsafe situations.”
Chelsea-Fay Bateman confirms it was her son, her niece and a friend who were stopped on 20th Street near Girouard Park by the man.
“At first he asked if they wanted a ride,” Bateman told The Morning Star. “My son was the only one that heard at that point and he was like no thanks. We’re good. Then the man was asking where they lived and something about a grocery store. At this point they were in the park keeping their distance. He asked them to come closer and they said no. My niece said ‘leave us alone. I’m calling my auntie.’ I was there within two minutes. When I got there they said he had just taken off.”
She didn’t see anything on their way home.
“They (kids) are scared but safe. They did absolutely everything right and I couldn’t be more proud of them,” Bateman said.
The truck was grey in colour and the children believe the truck was a Dodge Ram.
Tips and information on how to Street Proof your kids can be found on the BCRCMP website.