A New Jersey teen trying to fend off a would-be kidnapper was rescued by a group of good Samaritan nurses, who sprang into action when they heard her screams for help, police said.
The 17-year-old victim was walking along Bergenline Avenue near 79th Street in North Bergen on Wednesday when she was spotted by the suspect, identified by authorities as Roberto Canavalan, the Shore News Network reported. Police said he charged at the girl, grabbed her and then attempted to drag her off the street in an apparent bid to abduct her.
A struggle lasting approximately two minutes between the pair ensued before a group of good Samaritans rushed over to help the teen. North Bergen Police Chief Robert Farley said the heroes included three nurses from a nearby doctor’s office and another man who’d been walking nearby.
Together, they were able to fight off Canavalan, police said. When officers arrived on the scene a short time later, the victim and those who saved her were able to identify the suspect, and he was subsequently arrested.
Canavalan was charged with kidnapping and endangering the welfare of a child, police said, and he will remain in custody at Hudson County Correctional Facility pending his first court appearance.
