Otis L. Woodard Sr. : “St. Louis Man Charged in Child Abduction Attempt”

A St. Louis man is facing charges of attempted kidnapping after he allegedly tried to lead a 3-year-old child away from a home in the Carondelet neighborhood. The incident, which occurred on Saturday in the 300 block of Iron Street, has left the community in shock.

According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the mother of the child was monitoring her children playing in the backyard via a surveillance camera when she noticed a tall man in a dress leading her 3-year-old away from the property. Acting quickly, the mother rushed outside and confronted the man, who released the child and followed them back to the house, where he sat on the porch.

Shortly after, the child’s grandmother arrived at the scene and also confronted the man. The situation escalated when the man allegedly displayed what appeared to be a knife, prompting the grandmother to seek safety in her car. The man fled the scene before law enforcement could arrive.

Police officers were able to locate a man matching the description a few blocks away. The man was identified as Otis L. Woodard Sr., aged 40, and a steel wine opener was found in his possession. Woodard has since been charged with first-degree attempted kidnapping by the St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office.

This disturbing incident serves as a reminder for parents and caregivers to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings, especially when children are at play. It is crucial to have proper safety measures in place, such as surveillance cameras and immediate communication with law enforcement in case of emergencies.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident or any suspicious activity in the area to come forward and assist in the investigation. The safety and well-being of the community, particularly the children, must always remain a top priority.