CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — In a recent disturbing incident at a local pet store in Chillicothe, an attempted abduction of a young girl was foiled thanks to the swift action of store employees.
Law enforcement authorities are currently investigating the incident, which took place on June 10.
According to a police report, employees at Petland on North Bridge Street were alerted to a potential danger when a stranger engaged in a disturbing conversation with a seven-year-old girl. The incident occurred near the puppy station, and a quick-thinking employee overheard the conversation unfold. Sensing the imminent threat, the employee intervened.
With the help of her cousin and her cousin’s boyfriend, the employee immediately moved the girl and her companions to a secure puppy playroom within the store. Despite the relocation, the stranger persisted in his attempts to persuade the girl to go with him, even bringing his own daughters into the situation, the report said.
The employee reportedly escorted them out of the store until they reached their vehicle.
Another employee present during the incident also confirmed the stranger’s persistent efforts to convince the girl to leave with him.
According to the police report, witnesses corroborated the events, confirming the stranger’s persistent requests for the child to go home with him.
The name of the 58-year-old suspect has been withheld by the police department pending possible charges.
