Maples Elementary School

Letter about stranger-danger incident

May 12, 2023 

Greetings,  

May 12, 2023 

Greetings,  

This communication is being sent to all parents to inform you of an incident that occurred on May 10 near one of our elementary schools. 

Today we were provided information from parents and Dearborn Police regarding the possible attempted abduction of a young child in the area of Madison Street and Parker Street. This is not far from Nowlin Elementary and Smith Middle School. The police department has done a fantastic job of investigating this incident and has an increased presence in the neighborhood. 

The Dearborn Police have also shared the following information.  The suspect is described as a young male, possibly Middle Eastern, driving a silver SUV, possibly a Chevrolet Equinox. The suspect offered the child candy and asked the child to get into his vehicle. The child refused and the vehicle left the area.  Anyone who may have any additional information can contact the Dearborn Police at (313) 943-2241.    

As the weather turns warm and daylight hours extend later into the evening, we see more children enjoying outdoor activities. Unfortunately, there are those who take advantage of this time of year to attempt inappropriate interaction with children. 

It is important that these experiences are not evaluated to a point that would cause any emotional stress or harm to our children.  We should use these experiences as a teaching moment and an opportunity to talk to our children about how to stay safe when they are walking to and from school or playing in the neighborhood.  Here are a few helpful reminders:

  • Never talk to a stranger.
  • Never get into a car with a stranger.
  • Never talk to a stranger who is looking for his/her lost pet.
  • Children should walk to and from school with other children.
  • Always report suspicious characters to parents, teachers and the police.
  • If approached by a stranger, run in the opposite direction and tell an adult.

By working together and keeping an open line of communication, we can ensure that our schools, homes, and neighborhood will remain safe for all of us.

Sincerely,

Danielle Elzayat

Health, Safety & Security Supervisor

See letter document