WILMINGTON, DE – A dog’s loyalty and courage thwarted a potential kidnapping, leaving a Delaware community both relieved and on alert. On Monday evening, a ten-year-old girl was walking with her dog on North Harrison Street when a man attempted to abduct her. The girl’s canine companion intervened, biting the suspect and forcing him to flee. As a result, the young girl remained unharmed, while the police continue their search for the suspect.
The incident has left parents in Wilmington vigilant, particularly in areas like Wu Hanes Park, where children frequently play. Regina Johnson, a local resident, expressed her concern, noting the close-knit, family-oriented nature of the neighborhood. “It’s unsettling,” she said. “We always thought our children were safe here.”
Police have described the suspect as dressed in all black with a face covering. After the dog’s intervention, he was last seen running towards North Van Buren Street. Local authorities are urging the community to aid in the investigation by reviewing footage from home security cameras for any potential leads.
Genevieve Kongo, another resident, shared her cautious approach to parenting, emphasizing the importance of vigilance. “I never let my kids play alone,” she said. “You just can’t be too careful these days, especially after hearing about incidents like this.”
The Wilmington Police Department is intensifying efforts to ensure the community’s safety. Officers have been canvassing the area, knocking on doors, and asking residents to check their surveillance systems for any clues that might assist in identifying the suspect.
The swift action of the dog has been praised by many, serving as a reminder of the unexpected ways in which pets can protect their human families. “It’s reassuring to know that her dog was there,” Johnson added. “But it’s also a wake-up call for all of us.”
As the investigation continues, the community remains on high alert, with parents like Kongo keeping a close watch on their children and urging others to do the same. The police are hopeful that with the community’s assistance, they will soon apprehend the suspect and restore peace of mind to the neighborhood.