Caught on Cam: Schoolgirl from US’ Arizona Bravely Escapes Would-Be Kidnapper
Caught on Cam: Schoolgirl from US’ Arizona Bravely Escapes Would-Be Kidnapper
Quick-thinking Arizona girl evaded a kidnapping attempt by her neighbour, Joseph Ruiz, who has a criminal history.

A girl who was on her way to school in the US state of Arizona’s Glendale was able to escape her would-be kidnapper on Friday, the city’s police department said. The girl ran down her apartment’s staircase and ran into him but managed to walk around him.

The would-be kidnapper then arrived in a car and jumped in front of the girl and ran towards her with his arms extended. Fortunately, the girl got away and quickly informed the adults of what had happened. The police were able to arrest the suspect by tracing his car. Three other students also came to her aid. The three children were lauded for their quick thinking and bravery.

The video of the incident has gone viral on the internet sparking concerns from other parents who live in the area.

The suspect, Joseph Ruiz, 37, was arrested on suspicion of attempted kidnapping charges. Ruiz lived 40 metres away from the girl in the same complex and has a criminal history, including prior charges of attempted first-degree murder and aggravated assault, according to a report by Fox10 Phoenix.

He also is accused of stabbing his mother in the neck, with whom he still lives. “I would note that he has a history of violence. He was convicted of an aggravated assault, a class 3 dangerous felony, after having stabbed his mother in the neck, which caused some very serious injuries, so the state is concerned that he is at risk for violence,” a prosecutor said as they presented Ruiz in front a judge on Monday.

His mothers told police officers that he did not act normal on the day of the botched kidnapping and confessed to her that he kissed his underage cousin years ago. Ruiz has been booked on counts of attempted kidnapping and custodial interference. He’s held on a $25,000 cash-only bond.

“As a father myself, as a parent, it’s very frightening. It’s very frightening on her normal walk to school she was targeted. Someone tried to take her away from her loving family. So, we just want to say to parents of the Valley… watch out for your children. Teach them about this incident. Use it as an example of how they should talk. How they should be open, and tell those trusted adults about these things that happen,” Glendale police spokesperson Moroni Mendez was quoted as saying.

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