Student Fights Off Suspect in Attempted Kidnapping Near Galveston’s East End

GALVESTON, Texas – The Galveston Police Department is investigating an attempted kidnapping that occurred Monday morning, October 27, near the city’s East End.

Around 6:58 a.m., officers responded to Central Middle School after receiving reports that a student walking to school had been approached and grabbed by an unknown man.

Police met with the 13-year-old student, who said she was walking from her family’s apartment when she heard footsteps approaching from behind near the 900 block of 28th Street. The student told investigators the man grabbed her from behind, but she fought back, biting him twice before breaking free and running directly to the school for help.

The victim was not physically injured. School staff contacted police immediately after hearing her account.

Detectives issued an alert to local hospitals asking to be notified if anyone sought treatment for bite-related injuries. After the student’s parents arrived, they accompanied officers to retrace her route and identify where the incident occurred.

During a neighborhood canvass, investigators obtained surveillance video from a business in the 1000 block of 24th Street. The footage shows the student walking through the area followed by a man taking the same path. The suspect is described as a White or Hispanic male wearing a black short-sleeve shirt, blue jeans, and what appeared to be a ski mask.

Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspect. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Galveston Police Department at 409-765-3777 or submit an anonymous tip to Galveston County Crime Stoppers at 409-763-8477 or galveston.crimestoppersweb.com.