2 Child Luring Attempts In Toms River; Man In Silver SUV Sought

TOMS RIVER, NJ — Toms River police are searching for a man who they say tried to lure two children in separate incidents in Toms River on Saturday.

The man was driving a silver- or champagne-colored sport utility vehicle. He is described as a white male, bald and heavy set and with a goatee. He was wearing a light gray or white shirt, said Jillian Messina, media specialist for the Toms River Police Department. The SUV is a late 1990s/early 2000s model SUV, she said.

Police were called to the Georgetown section of Toms River about 4:45 p.m. for the two separate reports. One happened at Chippewa Drive and Apache Drive and the second incident was nearby in the area of Shawnee Drive, she said.

In both instances, the children ran away from the man and told their parents, who called police. There was no immediate information on what was said to the children or their approximate ages.

Police are continuing to investigate this matter, and remain in the area with extra patrols, Messina said.

"We are aware of neighborhood postings on social media sites and appreciate the cooperation of our residents," she said.

If you have seen the pictured vehicle and/or a man fitting the above description please contact Officer Michael McDonald at the Toms River Police Department at 732-349-0150 ext. 1366 or mmcdonald@trpolice.org.

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