Police seek man who approached student on way to school

By Doug Spoon, Editor

Menifee Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying a man who approached in a suspicious manner a student who was on his way to school this morning, authorities said.

The incident occurred about 7:50 a.m. in the area of Bradley Road and Craig Avenue near Paloma Valley High School, according to a Menifee Police Department news release. A 12-year-old male juvenile was riding his bike when the male suspect drove his vehicle in front of the boy, blocking his path.

The driver exited his truck, approached the boy and told him he had a book that he would read to him if he got into the truck. The juvenile did not do so. A Paloma Valley High School campus supervisor saw the interaction and approached to check on the juvenile. The driver fled south on Bradley Road.

The truck was described as an early 2000’s model white Toyota Tacoma single cab truck with a camper shell. The suspect was described as a white male, approximately 30-40 years old, with a “scruffy” beard and unkempt appearance.

The juvenile was not touched by the adult and was not injured, police said.

Menifee Union School District officials sent a letter to parents today, alerting them of the incident and the fact the boy is safe. The memo included safety tips, such as walking with others, not approaching a vehicle and going to a safe place if something seems suspicious. Parents were assured teachers will remind students of safety procedures throughout the week.

Menifee PD detectives are investigating what is being called a “suspicious incident”. Surveillance video captured an image of the truck (above) but was not able to ascertain the license plate. If you recognize the truck or the described driver, call MPD dispatch at 951-677-4964 and reference case number MN21-2311.