Minivan Driver Tried Picking Up Boy In Santee, Deputies Say

SANTEE, CA — The San Diego County Sheriff's Department is seeking the public's help in finding the driver of a minivan suspected of following a boy along a street in Santee and trying to entice him to get into the van.

The 9-year-old boy told deputies he was walking alone on Trailridge Avenue around 5 p.m. Wednesday when the driver asked him to get into the van and go to a community pool with him.

The boy refused and walked away and the driver left the area, according to sheriff's Sgt. Joseph Jarjura.

The driver was described as a white man, between 18 to 20 years old with short black hair. He was last seen wearing a light-colored T-shirt. A woman may have been in the passenger seat, but no description was available.

The minivan was possibly a black Dodge Caravan with tinted windows and black rims.

"The Sheriff's Department would like to remind the public to remain alert at all times when out for a walk," Jarjura said.

He encouraged residents to pay attention to their surroundings, walk with a friend or family member, and avoid outdoor activities at night.

Anyone with information was asked to call the department at 858-565-5200.