Mom Pulls Toddler From Kidnapper's Clutches

SANTA CLARITA, CA — A mother was able to wrestle away her 2-year-old daughter from a would-be kidnapper in Santa Clarita Monday, according to Los Angeles Sheriff's detectives. After she pulled her daughter to safety, it didn't take long for authorities to find the man they believe tried to snatch the toddler.

Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputies arrested George Michael Starr, 60, on suspicion of attempted kidnapping. The attack happened at about 11 a.m. in the 27000 block of McBean Parkway. The mother and child were walking together along the 27000 block of McBean Parkway when a man tried to grab the child, the mother told investigators.

"As the suspect attempted to grab the victim, the mother was able to pick her up and notify law enforcement of the incident," according to a sheriff's statement. "The suspect fled the location prior to the arrival of deputies."

A vehicle description was broadcast and the suspect was located in the area of 24200 Valencia Boulevard, according to sheriff's officials.. He was booked at the sheriff's Santa Clarita Valley Station on suspicion of attempted kidnapping and was being held in lieu of $100,000 bail, the sheriff's department reported.

The girl was not injured.

City News Service and Patch Staffer Paige Austin contributed to this report. Photo: Shutterstock