Child safety concerns grow after Cumberland County juvenile escapes possible near-abduction

According to reports, around 7:15 a.m., a white, four-door Crown Victoria driver picked up the juvenile walking to Grays Creek Middle or High School.

Once she was in the vehicle, the driver proceeded to a neighborhood across from Gray's Creek High School.

The child was able to escape without any injury.

"I'm constantly in my window or camera looking to see if those kids are safe," said Jermaine Ballantine, neighbor, parent.

The Sheriff's Office asked the public for assistance locating the driver, last seen on Highway 301 near Shipman Road in Hope Mills.

"You need to let your kids know that when they are on their way to school and on their own, their number one job is to stay safe," said Dr. Amy Tiemann, Founding Center Director, KidPower North Carolina.

She says a trusted adult should always have their eyes on children as they walk to and from school; it helps to make and practice a safety plan for getting help.

"Go outside-practice yelling with your kids, practice saying no, yelling no, yelling I need help," said Tieman. "Its really great actually to practice and feel the power of your voice."

Parents like Ballantine on alert for vehicles and people that feel out of place since hearing about the story.

"The last thing you need is for something to happen in your environment and you're not paying attention," said Ballantine.

Investigators with the sheriff's office are asking people to be on the lookout for the white four-door sedan.

The driver is described as a Black man with locs and black clothing.

If you have any information regarding this investigation, contact Special Victims Unit Detective Lieutenant L. Sheets at (910) 677-6755 or information may be submitted to Crimestoppers at (910) 483-TIPS (8477).