ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Investigators are still looking for the person behind a recent attempted kidnapping in Orange County.
Deputies said a man confronted a woman who was walking her dog and nearly forced her into his vehicle at gunpoint.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office said they need your help finding the man suspected of trying to kidnap the woman who was walking her dog around 10 a.m. on Sunday, May 11.
They said she was threatened at gunpoint near Adanson Street and Lee Road.
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The incident took place in the Sunshine Gardens area, in the 800 block of Timore Avenue. The suspect apparently tried to force her into his vehicle, but she was able to run away. The suspect took off in a stolen Toyota 4Runner, which was later found abandoned by deputies.
“I’m just so surprised that someone was actually almost abducted at gunpoint. Wow,” a local resident told News 6.
In speaking with several people in this neighborhood, many expressed that it is usually quiet and peaceful, but there are growing concerns about crime.
“Yes, I’m concerned about Lee Road, but we have this Motel 6, which is really bad,” said Ralph Brianna, a resident since 1960. “That’s where the bad people are coming from. But there are people out there on drugs.”
Orange County District 5 Commissioner Kelly Martinez Semrad also shared her thoughts about the incident, telling News 6, “The recent kidnapping attempt on Lee Road is severely alarming and reinforces the urgent need for vigilance and strong community engagement. Public safety is not just a priority, it’s a fundamental right. As District 5 Commissioner, I remain fully committed to protecting our families and neighborhoods. We are working closely with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the Lee Road Safe Neighborhood program, local nonprofits, and area businesses to strengthen crime prevention efforts and ensure safer streets. This office will continue to advocate for the resources and partnerships needed to keep District 5 safe, thriving, and united.”
Authorities describe the suspect as having black hair, an average build, and possibly a tattoo on his left forearm. If you have any information, call the Orange County Sheriff’s Office or Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS.
“I have guns and I watch. I think you have to be aware of what’s going on in your neighborhood. I think that’s the important thing. You know, when you see a stranger,” Brianna added.