For immediate release: May 13, 2022
Lynchburg Police Investigate Report of Attempted Abduction
LYNCHBURG, Va. – The Lynchburg Police Department (LPD) has been investigating an attempted child abduction that was reported earlier this week.
On May 11, 2022, at 10:44 p.m., it was reported to LPD that a 10-year-old girl had been approached by a suspicious man around 4:30 p.m. the same day while at the Plaza Shopping Center on Memorial Avenue. Initial statements said that the man was driving a white SUV and had asked the child to get into his vehicle. When she refused, the man drove away. This sequence of events also circulated throughout the community on social media accounts.
On the afternoon of May 12, 2022, LPD detectives were able to locate the man in question at the Plaza Shopping Center. While speaking with him, detectives determined he was suffering from declining health conditions and in need of immediate medical care. He was transported to Lynchburg General Hospital for further treatment.
As of this morning, recent developments in the case revealed that the encounter was not criminal in nature. Based on this additional information, updated witness statements, and discussion with the Lynchburg Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney, no charges will be filed.
The LPD appreciates the community’s prudent response to incidents of this nature. As always, timely reporting of any suspicious and/or criminal activities are encouraged.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Detective Hall at (434) 455-6155 or Crime Stoppers at (888) 798-5900. Enter an anonymous tip online at http://p3tips.com or use the P3 app on a mobile device.