Child luring suspect wanted in Santa Cruz case

Santa Cruz Police said investigators are trying to identify a man wanted for trying to lure a 12-year-old boy into his car.

Investigators said the incident happened Wednesday, February 3 in the 100 block of Tosca Terrace at about 4pm. They said the boy was riding his skateboard near his home when he saw a car driving back and forth on the street.

Investigators said the driver parked near the boy and asked if he wanted to get in and the boy said “no.” The suspect tried a second time by driving closer to him and the boy ran off.

Police said the suspect is described as a Hispanic man, 5’6″, in his mid 30s with yellowish teeth, wearing a short sleeve gray shirt and spoke in English with a heavy Spanish accent. They said the man was driving a light gold compact sedan with faded paint.

Anyone with information is asked to call police at 831-420-5820. Parents are being asked to remind their kids to be aware of their surroundings and run if approached by a stranger.