(May 2, 2004) -- LBPD says it appears an attempted NLB kidnapping was foiled by a savvy, alert bystander on Saturday May 1.

LBPD Public Information Officer Sgt. Dave Marander tells LBReport.com that at about 5 p.m. a woman and her four year old child, and a friend's four year old, were BBQ'ing at Ramona Park (in the area of Obispo Ave. just south of Artesia Blvd.)

PIO Marander says a male suspect apparently offered assist in lighting the BBQ grill, and as the mother cooked food, she turned around and the kids (two four year old girls) and the suspect were gone.

Witnesses said they saw the male suspect holding the kids by the hand outside the area of the park.

One person recognized the girls...but didn't recognize the suspect. That person said that when asked, the suspect claimed he was taking the girls to play...and when the questioning continued, the suspect let the girls go and the girls walked away.

The suspect also walked away, but here's LBPD's description:

The suspect is described as a 40 year old male Black, 5'6", average build, short hair, described as being clean, wearing a green, short sleeved collared dress shirt with buttons in the front, and blue jeans described as being stone-washed or acid-washed style.

Be aware. Possible suspect sketch to follow...and further info to follow as newsworthy.