Description Released Of Man In Child Luring Attempt Near School

EVERGREEN PARK, IL — Evergreen Park police have released a description of man who reportedly tried to lure a Southwest Elementary School student on her way to school on Monday morning. There will be an increased police presence, including officers on foot, during arrival and dismissal times in the area. The student is safe and in class, Dist. 124 officials said in an email to parents.

Shortly before 8 a.m., the fifth-grader was walking in the area of 99th Street and Hamlin Avenue by the crosswalk in front of Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School. A man, on foot, was on the opposite side of the street and called out to the girl several times along the lines of, “com here, I have something for you.”

“As the student began to run, the man crossed the street to the north side. The student ran to the crossing guard that is at the corner of 99th Street and Central Park Avenue,”Dist. 124 officials said. “The crossing guard brought the student into the building to report the incident. Parents and the Evergreen Park Police Department were contacted, a description of the man was given, and a police report was made.”

The man is described as an older male Hispanic with a wrinkled face and short brown hair. He was wearing a dark blue sweatshirt, khakis and work boots. Police said the man walked with a limp.

“No physical contact was made and the male did not chase after her,” police said.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident, saw a suspicious person lurking around the school, or has information to share, is asked to call the Evergreen Park Police Department at 708-422-2144.

Dist. 124 officials remind parents of the importance of talking to your children about safety and what to do in similar situations. It’s also good practice for students to walk with a friend to and from school.

Time of incident has been updated.