Public's Help Sought Finding Man Who Tried to Abduct Girl

RIVERSIDE - Riverside police today turned to the public for help identifying a man who attempted to abduct a female high school student.

The girl, who was unhurt, was targeted about 6:15 a.m. Monday at Eucalyptus Avenue and Fifth Street, according to Detective Karla Beler.

The student was walking to John North High School when she was grabbed from behind.

''The student struggled and was able to get away from the attacker,'' Beler said. ''The student ran to the school and reported the incident to a school administrator.''

The assailant was described as a stocky white man in his late 20s, about 5-foot-8, with black hair and a full beard. He was wearing a red T-shirt, red athletic shorts and tennis shoes.

Anyone with information was urged to call Beler at (951) 353-7125, or Detective Rita Cobb at (951) 353-7120.