Galveston, TX — A 13-year-old girl in Texas narrowly escaped an attempted abduction in broad daylight on Monday after a man tried to grab her from behind as she walked to school, according to police. The suspect, who appeared to be wearing a ski mask, is still being sought by authorities.
The incident occurred just before 7 a.m. as the teen was walking to Central Middle School in Galveston. Investigators say she heard footsteps approaching before a man suddenly grabbed her from behind.
“The student acted quickly, fought back, and was able to break free,” the Galveston Police Department said in a statement.
Quick Thinking Saved Her
According to FOX News, the girl immediately fought back, biting the attacker twice before managing to escape. She then ran straight to school and alerted her teachers, who called 911.
“She showed incredible bravery and quick thinking in the face of danger,” police said. “Her actions likely saved her life.”
Authorities confirmed that the teenager was not physically injured during the incident but was shaken by the encounter.
Investigation and Suspect Description
Police responded to the school and spoke with the girl’s parents, who accompanied officers back to their apartment to retrace her route. Investigators were able to identify the exact area where the attack occurred and began canvassing nearby businesses for security footage.
Video obtained from a local business showed the girl walking along her route, followed shortly by a man wearing a black short-sleeve shirt, blue jeans, and what appeared to be a ski mask.
“The footage shows a person matching the victim’s description of the suspect following her along the same path,” investigators confirmed.
Police described the suspect as a white or Hispanic male and have issued a local alert to medical centers, asking staff to report if anyone seeks treatment for bite-related injuries.
Safety Response and Community Alert
Officials said patrols have been increased around Central Middle School and nearby routes during morning hours to ensure student safety. Parents have been urged to walk or drive their children to school if possible, and students are being reminded to travel in groups when walking.
Authorities also released several safety reminders for parents and children:
- Walk in groups or with a trusted adult whenever possible.
- Stay alert and avoid distractions such as phones or headphones while walking.
- Report suspicious behavior or vehicles immediately to police.
- Know safe places along your route, such as schools or local stores, in case of emergency.
- Trust your instincts — if something feels wrong, get to safety quickly.
“Our community’s vigilance is critical right now,” police said. “We are asking anyone who may have seen something suspicious to contact us immediately.”
Police Asking for Information
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the suspect or the attempted abduction to contact the Galveston Police Department at 409-763-3777. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Galveston Crime Stoppers.
“We are doing everything possible to identify and apprehend this suspect before anyone else is targeted,” officials said.
The investigation remains active as detectives analyze additional footage and pursue leads in the area.
What are your thoughts on this terrifying incident and how communities can better protect students walking to school? Share your views in the comments below.
