An Oregon man has been arrested after police say he attempted to kidnap a 7-year-old girl while naked at a park in Portland. According to People, 31-year-old Daniel C. Vasey was taken into custody following a physical confrontation involving witnesses and the child’s parents.
The Portland Police Bureau said the incident occurred Saturday around 7 p.m. at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Police were initially dispatched after receiving two separate calls about a naked man running through the park. The second caller reported that the man allegedly attempted to punch them in the head.
Police Say Child Was Pulled Away From Her Mother
Authorities said another caller reported that Vasey grabbed a 7-year-old girl and began pulling her away from her mother.
Investigators explained that Vasey grabbed one of the girl’s arms while her mother held onto the other in an effort to stop him from taking the child. During the struggle, a bystander used an irritant spray to stop Vasey and prevent him from continuing the alleged kidnapping attempt. Police said the girl’s family was visiting Portland from out of state at the time of the incident.
Suspect Faces Multiple Felony Charges
Vasey was arrested at the scene and booked on multiple charges, including:
- Attempted Kidnapping in the First Degree
- Attempted Kidnapping in the Second Degree
- Custodial Interference in the First Degree
- Assault in the Third Degree
- Harassment
Authorities have not released additional details regarding a possible motive.
The investigation remains ongoing.