Updated to reflect that police are now describing this an an assault attempt rather than an attempted abduction.

Lynnwood police are investigating a report of what they are describing as an assault attempt that occurred near College Place Elementary School in Lynnwood April 14.

According to Lynnwood police spokesperson Cmdr. Joseph Dickinson, Lynnwood officers responded at about 4:30 p.m. to the 7300 block of 202nd Street Southwest to investigate reports of an attempted abduction. Officers determined three juvenile males were riding their bikes on the public trail behind the Lynnwood Golf Course when they were approached by an unknown male who suddenly reached out and grabbed one of the juveniles by the wrist. The boy “immediately pulled his hand away and rode off toward one of their residences,” Dickinson said. 

The subject was described as a Hispanic male, 45-50 years of age last seen wearing a black puffy jacket, black jeans, and a sweatshirt.  He did not speak or make any comments to the boys. The subject walked the same direction as the juveniles as they all rode away and was last seen at the intersection of 73rd Avenue West and 202nd Street Southwest. 

“There were no injuries reported and no indications the subject tried to pull the child off the bike,” Dickinson said. “The police department has communicated with the school district to ensure everyone is aware and has directed increased patrol presence in the area. The case is being assigned to detectives for further investigation as an assault.

“We want to remind the public to be vigilant and if they see anything suspicious to call 911,” Dickinson added.