Chandler PD: Man tries to lure girl into vehicle

CHANDLER, AZ - Authorities are on the lookout for a man who reportedly tried to lure a young Chandler girl into his vehicle Friday.

Chandler police say the 12-year-old girl was walking alone on Appleby Road west of Arizona Avenue around 4:30 p.m. when a small white older model pickup truck pulled up and stopped near her.

The driver asked her if she wanted to get in the truck and told her he would give her candy.

The girl said 'no' and kept walking and the man again asked her if she wanted a ride and told her he had candy.

The girl ran east toward Hamilton High School and the man drove off westbound toward Alma School Road.

The suspect was described as a Hispanic male, about 35- to 40-years-old with short black hair, full beard and a mustache.

Officers searched the area without finding the suspect.

Chandler police remind parents to make sure their children always walk in a group, never alone. They also say if approached to run, scream and seek help. If grabbed, fight back scream and run away. They stress the importance of talking with children about the dangers of child predators or "Stranger Danger."

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call the Chandler Police Department at 480-782-4130.