Oregon man arrested after alleged attempt to kidnap girl, 7, at park

Oregon police arrested 31-year-old Daniel C. Vasey after he allegedly tried to kidnap a seven-year-old girl from Portland's Waterfront Park, where the child's parents and bystanders intervened before officers took him into custody. The girl was not seriously injured during the incident, authorities said.

Parents, witnesses stop alleged kidnapping attempt

According to the Portland Police Bureau, dispatchers first received reports shortly before 7 p.m. on July 11 of a naked man running through Waterfront Park. A second caller reported that the man had allegedly tried to punch someone.

Before officers could respond, police received another emergency call alleging the man had grabbed a seven-year-old girl and attempted to pull her away from her mother.

Investigators said Vasey allegedly seized the girl's arm while her mother held onto her other arm, creating a struggle that lifted the child off the ground. Her father and several witnesses then intervened, punching, pulling and restraining the suspect until he released the girl.

A bystander also used an irritant to prevent the man from approaching anyone else. Police said the child did not suffer serious physical injuries.

Police arrest suspect in Willamette River

After releasing the child, the suspect entered the nearby Willamette River, according to police.

Responding officers later located Vasey wading in the river and arrested him without further incident.

Daniel C. Vasey faces multiple charges

Vasey has been charged with first-degree attempted kidnapping, second-degree attempted kidnapping, first-degree custodial interference, third-degree assault and harassment.

Authorities have not said whether he has entered a plea or retained legal representation. The investigation remains ongoing.