Rye Schools Warn Parents @ Suspicious Incident in Rye Neck

Rye Schools are warning parents about a suspicious incident yesterday in Rye Neck, the official email is below.

From: Frank Alvarez
Sent: Thursday, January 21, 2016
Subject: Suspicious Incident in Rye Neck Yesterday
Dear Rye City School District Parents and Guardians:

The City of Rye Police Department has just informed the District of a suspicious incident that occurred on Wednesday afternoon in Rye Neck. Here is the description of what transpired, according to the Rye Neck Union Free School District:

“Shortly after 3:15 PM on Wednesday, January 20th, an incident occurred involving three thirteen year old females in the Rye Neck school district. The girls were walking home on Wagner Avenue, near Frank Avenue, when they were approached by a vehicle described as a dark gray sedan with tinted windows. The driver, the sole occupant, was described as a man with tanned or dark skin in his 40s. The man stopped the vehicle and put a phone to his face as if to take a photo or video. The girls ran to the safety of a friend’s house. The car lingered, then drove away.”

When incidents like this are brought to our attention, it is an opportunity for us to review safety rules with our children.  Please take time to speak to your children about avoiding contact with strangers and circumstances that may increase their vulnerability.  Encourage them to speak with you about situations that make them feel uncomfortable.  Below, please find some "Stranger Danger" reminders to use when talking with your children: 

·       Do not talk to strangers

·       Never approach a vehicle with a stranger inside

·       Never enter a vehicle with a stranger

·       When possible, walk in public areas and walk in groups

·       If approached by a stranger, run to safety

·       Try to remember license plate numbers or other descriptive information

·       Call 911 immediately to report suspicious behavior to the Police or ask an adult to do so for you

I encourage you to reinforce basic safety precautions with your children on an ongoing basis.  Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

Frank Alvarez

Superintendent