Police in Linwood, New Jersey, urge residents to remain vigilant after suspected bike path incident

LINWOOD, New Jersey (WPVI) – Linwood, New Jersey police are investigating a report of a man trying to grab a ten-year-old girl who was riding her bicycle on Sunday afternoon.

Police say it happened at about 1:50 p.m. on the Linwood bike path along the tree-lined stretch between Seaview and Patcong avenues.

“Someone posted that her daughter was chased by a gentleman on the bike path,” said Stephanie Ollek, who was walking to school with her children on this bike path.

“We also have three children here in Linwood. I know a lot of parents are concerned,” Ollek said.

Police say the girl told them the suspect stabbed her and followed her on foot as she rode her bike.

“She could step away. She could secure herself at a friend’s house,” said lt. Steven Cunningham told the Linwood Police Department.

She described the suspect as a white man with a gray and brown beard, in black and fifty.

Police say the bike path that connects various town links is widely used and encourages people to be vigilant.

“We would recommend that these children travel in groups. If they have to travel alone, you need to be vigilant. Be aware of your surroundings,” Cunningham said.

Police say patrols have been intensified in this area due to this incident. They also watch the area surveillance video.

Anyone with information should contact Linwood Police.

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