Girl escapes abduction attempt

Merced police are on the lookout after an alleged abduction attempt of a 10-year-old girl was reported around 8 a.m. Friday in the 1800 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Way.

The girl told police that a man walked up to her, grabbed her around the waist and touched her chest. The child said she escaped after stomping on the man's foot and running away. The child wasn't physically hurt during the incident, Matthews said.

The suspect is described as a white man in his 30s with a full beard. The victim also reported the suspect's clothes were dirty, and he was wearing a brown jacket and blue jeans.

Police searched the area where the incident was reported, but they didn't find anyone matching the suspect's description, Matthews said.

Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to call (209) 385-6912 or the department's automated tip line at (209) 385-4725. Callers can remain anonymous.

Reporter Victor A. Patton can be reached at (209) 385-2431 or vpatton@mercedsun-star.com.