Attempted kidnapping in Bel Air neighborhood: What we know

A young girl was grabbed from behind by a stranger in a Bel Air neighborhood Saturday afternoon, according to the Bel Air Police Department. The suspect drove away before officers arrived.

What’s Happening: Officers responded to the area of Majors Choice Drive and Grayson Square, near Moores Mill Road, at about 4:40 p.m. Saturday.

According to police, the girl was walking along the sidewalk on Majors Choice Drive, near a community pond, when a man came up behind her and grabbed her near the base of the neck.

What’s Important: The girl screamed and ran toward North Shamrock Road. The suspect walked back to a parked vehicle, made a U-turn on Majors Choice Drive, and drove away toward Moores Mill Road. The girl was not physically injured, according to police.

What We Know: Police describe the suspect as a white male adult, possibly in his 30s, with brown hair, a beard, and a thin build. He was reportedly wearing a baseball cap. The vehicle is believed to be a white or gray sport utility vehicle. The rear hatch may have been open while the vehicle was parked near the pond.

How This Affects Real People: Police are asking residents nearby, especially those with home security or doorbell cameras, to check their footage from Saturday between about 4:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.

The Path Forward: The case remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Sergeant Henry Marchesani, Corporal John Ganovski, or Detective Jess Carpenter at (410) 638-4500.