Local Healthcare Worker Catches Adult Annoying Child Outside IE School, Intervenes

FONTANA, CA — A Kaiser Permanente employee is being recognized as a local hero after stepping in to protect a child during a potentially dangerous situation near a Fontana elementary school.

Greg Barron isn't just an overnight clerical clerk in the emergency department at Kaiser Permanente Fontana Medical Center, he is also a local soccer coach, mentor and father. Protecting others is second nature, his employer says.

In early March, he was just heading home on his normal route, while kids were walking to school, when he witnessed the troubling scene.

While driving home along his usual route, he noticed something unusual: an adult on a scooter closely following a young boy walking to school.

As the distance between them quickly narrowed, Barron said it appeared the two did not know each other. When the man began reaching into his pockets, Barron became concerned.

“It scared me,” Barron said. “It made me think about my own kids.”

He pulled over and asked the child if he knew the man. The boy, visibly shaken, said no, according to Barron's online account. He got involved, stepping out of his car and taking a protective stance.

Barron remained with the child until the child was safely at school. He reported what happened to the school staff and an on-site police officer. Patch has reached out to the Fontana police to determine whether other child annoyances have occurred in similar areas in recent months.

“If you see something suspicious, step in,” Barron said. “You never know whose life you might save. “Whatever it takes to bring attention to this issue, I am willing to do. I just want to make sure people are aware of what could happen in your own backyard, and to come together and watch out for one another.”

His actions come at a meaningful time, as April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month—a time dedicated to raising awareness and protecting children. Child abduction, trafficking, and exploitation are also forms of abuse, and this observance serves as a reminder to stay alert and speak up when something doesn’t feel right.

In a single moment, Barron’s swift response may have made a lifesaving difference for a child.

"I made sure that boy got to school, but just to let you guys know, trafficking is real. It made me think of my own kid, who sometimes walks to school. Take care of your babies, because trafficking is real. And it's here. Even if you think it isn't possible, it is. Take care of our babies. Even if you don't know somebody, step in. You never know whose life you might save. Whose kid might get home? This was in Fontana, in broad daylight, in front of an elementary school. Watch over your babies, that God takes care of them anywhere and everywhere they go."

Barron shared his story on TikTok, and over 33,000 have liked it, with thousands more commenting on his experience.

"As adults, we should consider every child to be 'ours!' We are their protectors. Thank you for paying attention and protecting," one commenter shared.

"You saved that child's life and for that I am honored to have you as a big part of my family," another commenter known to Barron said. "That child will never forget what you did for him. Thank you for sharing and spreading awareness."