Police in Chilliwack, British Columbia, have laid charges against a man after an attempted abduction of a seven-year-old girl from an elementary school. The incident occurred on Wednesday morning at Central Elementary School, where a man wearing a purple bunny mask attempted to remove the child from the school grounds.
Quick Intervention by Bystander
A concerned bystander noticed the man acting suspiciously and intervened, preventing the abduction. The RCMP was notified at approximately 9 a.m. and responded promptly. Police confirmed that the child did not know the suspect.
Suspect Identified and Charged
Joel McGillis, the alleged perpetrator, has been charged with kidnapping a person under 16 years of age. He remains in custody. According to online court documents, McGillis has a lengthy criminal record dating back to 2003, including convictions for assault, assault with a weapon, theft, breaking and entering, and breach of probation.
Police Appeal for Witnesses
Authorities are asking anyone who was in the area between Central Elementary School and the 46000-block of Margaret Avenue between 8:30 a.m. and 9:15 a.m. to come forward. Specifically, they are seeking information about anyone seen wearing a purple bunny-like mask during that time.
The Chilliwack RCMP continues to investigate and urges anyone with information to contact them. The school community has been reassured that safety measures are being reviewed.
