PORTLAND, Oregon — A disturbing incident at a popular waterfront park has led to the arrest of a 31-year-old man accused of attempting to kidnap a young child in broad daylight, prompting concern among residents and visitors.
According to the Portland Police Bureau, the incident occurred shortly before 7 p.m. on July 11 near Tom McCall Waterfront Park, where multiple 911 calls reported a naked man behaving erratically. Witnesses said the man was running through the park and, in at least one instance, attempted to assault a bystander.
Authorities later identified the suspect as Daniel C. Vasey. Just after 7 p.m., police received another urgent call reporting that the man had grabbed a 7-year-old girl and tried to pull her away from her mother.
Officials said the encounter quickly escalated, with the suspect reportedly lifting the child off the ground during the struggle. The girl, who was visiting Portland with her family from out of state, sustained minor injuries, including scratches, and was treated at the scene by paramedics.
The attempted abduction was ultimately stopped by the girl’s parents and several bystanders, who intervened and physically confronted the suspect. One individual reportedly used pepper spray, forcing him to release the child.
When officers arrived, they located Vasey in the nearby Willamette River, where he was still unclothed. He was taken into custody without further incident.
Police confirmed that Vasey has been booked on multiple charges, including first- and second-degree attempted kidnapping and third-degree assault, among others. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to review witness statements and evidence from the scene.
The incident has raised concerns about public safety in crowded recreational areas, with many praising the quick actions of the child’s family and bystanders that prevented what could have been a far more tragic outcome.
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