Naked man tries to kidnap 7-year-old girl in Portland park and ends up arrested
The minor suffered minor injuries and was helped by her parents and several witnesses who intervened before the arrival of the police.
A 31-year-old man was arrested Saturday night in Portland, Oregon, after he allegedly tried to kidnap a 7-year-old girl at a busy park along the Willamette River, authorities said.
The incident occurred shortly before 7:00 p.m. at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, one of the city's most visited public spaces.
According to Portland Police, several people initially called 911 to report that a naked man was running through the park and that he had even tried to hit one of those present. However, at that time there were no agents available because they were attending to other emergencies.
He tried to take the girl from her mother
Approximately 12 minutes after the first reports, a new call alerted that the suspect had grabbed a 7-year-old girl and was trying to take her away by force.
When officers arrived at the scene they found the suspect swimming naked in the nearby Willamette River.
The investigation determined that the man, identified as Daniel Vasey, allegedly took the minor by one of her arms while her mother held her by the other to prevent him from taking her away.
The authorities indicated that the struggle was so intense that the girl was suspended from the ground for several moments.
Parents and witnesses intervened to prevent the kidnapping
The minor's father and several people who were in the park immediately came to help the family.
According to police, some witnesses hit and held the suspect until he let go of the girl. One of them even used pepper spray to keep him away from the people present.
The minor suffered some scratches and was treated by paramedics at the scene. It was not necessary to transfer her to a hospital.
The family informed investigators that they were visiting Portland as part of a tourist trip from out of state.
The suspect faces several charges
Daniel Vasey was taken into custody and taken to the Multnomah County Detention Center.
Authorities charged him with first- and second-degree attempted kidnapping, first-degree custodial interference, third-degree assault and stalking.
The investigation continues as authorities gather testimony and review the circumstances surrounding the incident.