A terrifying moment in California ended with a close call after an 8-year-old girl managed to escape what police say was an attempted kidnapping.
The incident unfolded in Fresno on the afternoon of April 22, when a woman allegedly tried to force the child into a vehicle in broad daylight.
According to authorities, 37-year-old Tyiesha Davis is accused of grabbing the girl by her hair in an attempt to pull her into the car. But in a brave and quick reaction, the child was able to break free.
She immediately ran to a nearby home and knocked on a neighbor’s door, where she was taken inside to safety.
Police say the suspect allegedly told the girl something even more disturbing — claiming she had been “stolen at birth” and that she knew her name. When the child’s parents arrived, they confirmed the woman had no connection to their family.
The attempted kidnapping happened around 4:38 p.m. near Andrews Avenue, close to Shields and West Avenues, according to the Fresno Police Department.
Witnesses in the area reportedly saw what was happening and quickly called 911.
Davis was later arrested and booked into the Fresno County Jail, where bail was set at $185,000.
Neighbors in the area said they were shaken by the incident but relieved by how it ended.
One nearby resident said he was thankful the girl made it out safely and was reunited with her family, calling the outcome a huge relief.