Waterloo Regional Police have issued a community safety alert following a concerning incident in Woolwich Township where an unknown man offered young people a ride.
Incident Details and Police Response
The police service released information about the event on December 19, 2025. According to the report, an unidentified man approached young individuals and offered them a ride in the township. The exact location, time, and number of youths involved were not immediately specified in the initial alert.
Authorities are treating the matter seriously and have alerted the public to increase vigilance. The police have not indicated whether the man's vehicle was described or if the offer was made to a specific group, such as students walking home.
Community Safety Recommendations
In response to the incident, police are urging parents and guardians to have conversations with children and teenagers about stranger safety. Key advice includes:
- Never accepting rides from people you do not know.
- Walking in groups or pairs whenever possible.
- Immediately reporting any suspicious approaches to a trusted adult or directly to the police.
- Being aware of their surroundings, especially during the shorter winter daylight hours.
This alert serves as a reminder for community members to look out for one another and report any unusual activity. The police have not stated if there is an ongoing search for the individual or if the incident is isolated.
Broader Context and Vigilance
While the details remain under investigation, the police alert aims to prevent any potential escalation. Such incidents underscore the importance of community awareness and proactive safety discussions within families.
Waterloo Regional Police are asking anyone with information related to this event, or who may have witnessed similar suspicious behavior in the Woolwich Township area, to contact them immediately. The service has not linked this incident to any other ongoing investigations at this time.
