SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, July 20, 2024 (Gephardt Daily) — Salt Lake City Police officials have arrested a 29-year-old man after his alleged attempt to kidnap a 12-year-old girl in the Sugar House neighborhood.
This investigation started at 10:45 p.m. Friday when a call came to dispatch about a suspicious circumstance near the Interstate 80 overpass and 700 East involving a man who reportedly grabbed the girl by the wrist and began pulling her.
“Both the 12-year-old and her friend fought back, managed to break the man’s grip, and waved down a community member for help,” the statement says.
“Detectives are trying to identify the community member who helped the girls. Detectives believe that person may have critical information to this case. That person is asked to contact the SLCPD by calling 801-799-3000.”
Officers began searching the area, and later found 29-year-old Mason Andrew Musser nearby and arrested him, the statement says.
Musser is currently in the Salt Lake County Metro Jail on a charge of attempted child kidnapping.
Police advise parents and guardians to talk with children about how to respond in potential dangerous or unwanted situations.
“Simple tips include teaching children to stay in groups, identifying trusted adults they can approach if they feel unsafe, and practicing what to say and do if a stranger tries to take them.
“The Salt Lake City Police Department recognizes the bravery of the two minors involved in this incident. This was a traumatic experience, and the department, through its victim services program, will help provide support and advocacy to help those affected.”
