A Washington, D.C., mother says she is “devastated” after a stranger allegedly attempted to take her two children from their school earlier this week, raising fresh concerns about student safety protocols.
The incident occurred Monday afternoon at Center City Public Charter School’s Petworth campus, according to authorities and school surveillance footage reviewed by FOX 5 DC.
Suspect Allegedly Knew Children’s Details
Police say the man entered the pre-K through eighth-grade school on the 500 block of Webster Street Northwest around 3:30 p.m. He allegedly tried to pick up the woman’s two children — a 12-year-old boy and a three-year-old girl.
The mother told reporters she was alarmed that the suspect appeared to know personal information.
“He knew the names and grades of my kids,” she said. “I’ve never seen this man ever in my life.”
According to a police report, a teacher became suspicious during the interaction, refused to release the children, and prevented the man from leaving with them. The suspect then walked out of the building.
Mother Describes Emotional Toll
Speaking publicly about the incident, the mother said the experience left her shaken.
“I couldn’t eat all night. I couldn’t sleep. I’m feeling sick — it’s just devastating,” she said.
She also questioned how the individual could have obtained her children’s information.
“What made you want to come to the school and get my children?” she said, addressing the suspect.
Investigation Ongoing
The Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia confirmed officers interviewed the mother and are reviewing surveillance footage as part of the investigation. Authorities have not released a suspect description publicly.
School officials have not yet issued a formal statement, though media outlets report efforts are underway to gather more information.
Renewed Focus on School Security
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about school pickup procedures and the importance of staff vigilance. Safety experts note that strict verification protocols and attentive personnel often play a critical role in preventing potential child abductions.
In this case, officials say a teacher’s quick judgment likely prevented a dangerous situation from escalating.
Police are urging anyone with information to contact investigators as the search for the suspect continues.
