Police Investigate Report of Stranger Approaching Child in Algonquin

The Algonquin Police Department is investigating a report of a man who drove up to a girl and asked if she needed a ride home Tuesday afternoon. 

The incident occurred at Barrett Drive and Broadsmore Drive in Algonquin at 3:45 p.m., according to an Algonquin Police Department press release. 

The girl described the man as a black male in his 20s or 30s who was bald with a clean, shaved face, according to the news release. The vehicle was described as an older dark red or maroon minivan with small wheels and rust spots. 

The girl fled the scene and the vehicle left in an unknown direction. 

A handful of other reports of strangers approaching children in Algonquin have been reported this year, including one and three in January.

Anyone with information on the most recent incident is encouraged to call the Algonquin Police Department at 847-658-4531. 

Review Safety Information With Children

Police are encouraging parents to review safety information with children. 

The following points can be discussed with children:

• Don't talk to strangers who try to talk to you on the way home. 
• If the stranger continues trying to talk to you or stops the vehicle, run home or run to the nearest public place and immediately tell an adult what has happened.
• Never walk up to the car of a stranger, and never go with a stranger.
• It is best not to walk alone.
• Walk with a friend or a group of students.
• If you have a cellphone, call 911 immediately.
• Try to remember as much as you can about the stranger and vehicle.