Hayward, California — Authorities are searching for a suspect accused of attempting to abduct a woman in broad daylight after witnesses and bystanders helped stop the incident before it escalated further.
The frightening encounter unfolded Friday afternoon in Hayward, where police say a woman was walking along a residential street when a man allegedly grabbed her without warning and attempted to drag her away.
Investigators are now asking the public for help identifying the suspect, who remains at large.
Woman Allegedly Dragged During Daylight Encounter
According to the Hayward Police Department, the incident occurred around 3:15 p.m. near the intersection of Jackson Street and Soto Road.
Officials said the victim was walking north on Soto Road when she passed a man heading in the opposite direction.
Police allege that the suspect suddenly grabbed the woman and dragged her approximately 15 to 20 feet. The victim reportedly screamed for help and fought back as she attempted to free herself from the suspect’s grasp.
Authorities said her actions, combined with the quick response of nearby witnesses, helped prevent the situation from becoming even more serious.
Bystanders Step In to Help
As the struggle unfolded, two bystanders reportedly witnessed the incident and immediately intervened. Police said the witnesses confronted the suspect, forcing him to release the woman before fleeing the area.
The suspect then ran from the scene before officers arrived. Investigators praised the actions of the bystanders, whose intervention may have prevented a possible kidnapping.
The victim was not physically injured during the incident, according to police. However, officials noted that incidents of this nature can be traumatic and frightening for those involved.
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Suspect Remains on the Run
Following the attempted abduction, officers searched the surrounding area but were unable to locate the suspect.
Authorities said he was last seen running along Soto Road toward Jackson Street. Police described the suspect as a white or Hispanic male, approximately 5-foot-7 and around 120 pounds.
Investigators said he had bushy hair, thin eyebrows, and distinctive-colored eyes. At the time of the incident, he was reportedly wearing:
- A white T-shirt with red paint splatters
- Black pants
- A black crossbody bag
Officials are urging anyone who recognizes the description to contact investigators.
Witnesses Compared Suspect to Justin Bieber
One detail that quickly drew public attention was a witness description comparing the suspect’s appearance to pop star Justin Bieber.
According to police, several witnesses told investigators the suspect resembled the singer, prompting authorities to include the description as part of their public appeal for information.
Officials emphasized that the comparison was simply a witness observation intended to help identify the suspect and should not be interpreted as anything beyond a physical resemblance.
Investigators continue to review evidence and seek additional witness accounts.
Police Asking Public for Information
The Hayward Police Department is encouraging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has information about the suspect’s identity to come forward.
Authorities hope additional tips from the public will help locate the individual and determine exactly what led up to the attempted abduction.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Hayward Police Department at 510-293-7176.
As the search continues, officials are reminding residents to remain aware of their surroundings and report suspicious activity immediately.
What are your thoughts on the role bystanders played in stopping this incident? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
