Johnston Police searching for man who attempted to kidnap 8-year-old camper

JOHNSTON, R.I. (WLNE) — The Johnston Police Department said it is searching for a suspect after an attempted child kidnapping.

Police said an 8-year-old camper at Johnston Memorial Park reported they were sitting on a bench at the park around 3:30 p.m. Friday when they were approached by the jogger.

The camper told police that the man took out a brown bottle and cloth, wetted the cloth, and asked the child to approach.

The camper yelled for counselors, and the suspect ran into the men’s bathroom, then ran out shirtless towards Atwood Avenue.

Police described the suspect as appearing to be in his late 20s or early 30s, 6 feet tall, with olive toned skin, black hair, wearing a white or gray tank top, black and reddish shorts, carrying a large black water bottle and Crossbody bag.

The incident is still being investigated.