Beach Street Student Approached By Stranger

Suffolk County police are investigating the report of a Beach Street Middle School student who said he was followed and approached by a middle-aged man driving a black Pontiac who attempted to pick him up as walked to a bus stop to meet his younger siblings last week.

The incident reportedly took place at the intersection of Pat Drive and Peter Paul Drive on Wednesday, Sept 12.

According to an alert posted on the West Islip School District website, the victim was followed by an older model black Pontiac as he made his way to the bus stop. The man driving the car, described as approximately 45 to 50 years of age with sparse, white facial hair and wearing black-framed glasses, reportedly tried to coax the teen into the car, telling him his mother was in the hospital and sent the driver to pick up him up.

When the student told the man he had just seen his mother and she was fine, the suspect immediately fled.

A police report has been filed, acording to the district.

In the statement posted on the school district's website, Superintendent Richard Simon outlined safety guidelines and encouraged parents to discuss them with their kids.

"While it is certainly inappropriate to foster a sense of insecurity for our children, it is imperative that we provide them with the information and support needed to handle any potentially dangerous situation," Simon stated. "Following and reinforcing the guidelines set forth will help promote a safer community for all."

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