Update:

Upon further interviews with the victim this morning, detectives have determined that no attempted abduction took place in this incident. Officials appreciate the community’s assistance with this matter.

Original post (edited)

Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers is asking for the public’s help identifying a man who tried to abduct a teenager as she walked home from school yesterday afternoon.

The victim was walking westbound on Braman Avenue, near Broadway Avenue, around 4:30 p.m. on Jan. 7 when a white male in a red pick-up truck approached her. The man told the teen that he’d been watching her and that he noticed she didn’t have her cell phone with her. At that point, he grabbed the victim by the back of her shirt and backpack in an attempt to pull her into the vehicle. In fear for her life, the victim bit the suspect’s left forearm and managed to escape his grip. As she was running away, the teen noticed the suspect make a u-turn and drive back in the direction he came towards Broadway Avenue.

Anyone who may have been in the area of Braman and Broadway around the time of the attempted abduction, or who has information on the suspect, is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS (8477). All callers will remain anonymous and will be eligible for a cash reward of up to $3,000. Tips may also be made online at www.southwestfloridacrimestoppers.com or on the P3Tips mobile app.