Police investigating possible attempted abduction of 8-year-old girl

(Fairfax County Police image)

The Fairfax County Police released a composite sketch today of a man they say may have tried to abduct an 8-year-old girl in the Woodlawn area last week. 

The incident happened Wednesday near the intersection of Frye Road and Madge Lane (see map). Police say the girl got off her school bus around 5:15 p.m. and was walking home when a stranger approached her. The man tried to talk with the girl, but she refused, police said. The man then grabbed the girl’s arm, but she was able to break free and run away, police said.

The assailant chased the girl for a short distance, but stopped, police said. The girl made it home and told her mother what happened.

The assailant is described as a black male between the ages of 40-50 years old, with a tattoo on his inner right forearm. He’s believed to approximately 5 foot 6 inches tall and had short hair and a short beard, and a mole on his left ear. 

The incident comes on the heels of the apparent murder of 16-year-old Jholie Moussa, who was found dead in Woodlawn Park last Friday. Woodlawn Park is roughly four blocks from where the attempted abduction took place. 

Police did not say if they believe the incidents are related, but said that detectives are continuing to investigate the area, speak to witnesses and review surveillance footage. Extra patrols will be made in the area as well, police said. 

Anyone with information about the man in the sketch or the incident in question is asked to contact Detective Hengemuhle at 703-246-3086 or call the police at 703-691-2131. Tips can also be submitted anonymously by visiting www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org or text-a-tip by texting “TIP187” plus your message to CRIMES (274637).