FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MEDIA CONTACT: OFFICER JESSICA BANUELOS 510-293-7064 Attempted Kidnapping

Attempted Kidnapping - Intersection of Jackson St and Soto Rd

HAYWARD, Calif., On June 19, 2026, at approximately 3:15 p.m., officers were flagged down near the intersection of Jackson Street and Soto Road, in the area of the Hayward DMV, regarding an attempted kidnapping.

The female victim told officers she was walking northbound along Soto Road when she encountered an unknown male subject who was walking southbound. As they passed each other, the subject suddenly grabbed the victim and forcibly moved her approximately 15 to 20 feet against her will.

The victim screamed and struggled to break free as the subject continued to restrain her. Two Good Samaritans witnessed the incident and immediately intervened, causing the subject to release the victim and flee the area on foot.

The subject was last seen fleeing southbound on Soto Road. His whereabouts became unknown after he reached the area of Jackson Street.

The subject is described as a White or Hispanic male, approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall, 120 pounds, with bushy hair, thin eyebrows, and unique-colored eyes. He was wearing a white T-shirt with red paint on it, black pants, and a black crossbody bag. Witnesses described him as resembling a "Justin Bieber look-alike."

Responding officers conducted an extensive search of the area but were unable to locate the subject.

The victim was not physically injured during the incident.

The Hayward Police Department would like to thank the Good Samaritans whose quick actions helped bring this incident to an end and likely prevented further harm to the victim.

Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Hayward Police Department Tip Line at 510-293-7176.

The Hayward Police Department case number is 2026-033267.