Lake County Gazette

In the evening of September 24, 2025, the City of Highland Park Police Department responded to a report from a resident that a student had been approached by an unknown individual who allegedly asked the student to enter their vehicle. After reviewing available audio and video evidence, investigators identified both the truck and its driver. Authorities determined that there was no attempted luring incident; video and audio from inside the vehicle showed that nothing was said during the encounter.

"The City takes every reported public safety concern seriously, and investigations into reported threats begin immediately. The City shares information about active investigations as appropriate to help residents understand potential safety issues and make informed decisions for themselves and their families. Fortunately, the investigation determined there was no risk to the student in this case," city officials stated.

The initial report indicated that on September 24 at around 2:45 PM near Ridge Rd. and Devonshire Ct., an elementary school student was approached by a white male with a long black beard driving a white box truck with rust near the windows. According to the student's account, after exiting the school bus, "Hey kid, get in the car," was said by the driver before the student ran home safely. The vehicle then traveled southbound on Ridge Rd.

The police encouraged anyone who witnessed the event or had relevant security camera footage to contact their Investigations Division at 847.432.7730 or call 911 if they saw the suspect or vehicle.

Authorities also asked residents and businesses with contractors or service workers operating similar vehicles in the area at that time to notify police to aid in their investigation.

Parents and guardians are advised to speak with children about safety measures when walking to and from school or bus stops, such as not approaching vehicles without permission, seeking help if approached by strangers, and reporting suspicious behavior immediately.

The Highland Park Police Department emphasized ongoing communication between parents and children regarding safety precautions in such situations. They noted that most child abductions involve someone known to the child, highlighting guidance from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). NCMEC recommends teaching children to run away from situations or behaviors that make them uncomfortable.

Some tips provided include identifying trusted adults—such as uniformed police officers or store clerks—avoiding conversations with unknown adults while outside, running home or seeking public spaces if followed or spoken to by strangers, never going anywhere without parental permission, walking in groups rather than alone, calling 911 if feeling unsafe, and promptly reporting any incidents.

The KidSmartz program from NCMEC offers interactive materials for parents and children in grades K-5 about personal safety; these resources are available at kidsmartz.org in both English and Spanish.

Parents are also encouraged to teach children important personal information such as their full names, addresses, phone numbers, and how to dial 911 in emergencies.