Police searching for man who followed school student home at Millswood
Parents have been warned after a primary-age student was stalked by a suspicious man at Millswood on Monday on her way home from school.
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Top schools in Adelaide’s southern suburbs are on high alert after a man followed a primary school student home, possibly using a phone to film the incident.
The victim, believed to be a girl, was stalked by the man along Goodwood Rd, Millswood, about 3.30pm on Monday after she left Westbourne Park Primary School.
Two other primary schools surround the stretch of road where the man was last seen.
The principal of Westbourne Park Primary, Jason Munro, told The Advertiser confirmed one of the students was followed home by an unknown male.
“The matter was reported to police and they are investigating.
“The following day (Tuesday) we informed our parent community by letter.
“We take the safety of our students very seriously and teachers have spoken to their classes about how to stay safe in public places.”
The incident prompted several schools in nearby suburbs to issue fresh warnings about student safety.
A letter sent to parents at one school said the student “was followed by an unknown male when walking home”.
“The unknown male also appeared to be filming,” the letter said.
“As Millswood is within the vicinity of where you live, I thought it important and helpful to share this information, for your awareness too. It may be a good time to reinforce some protective behaviours with the children at home.”
Parents from another school were notified of the incident about midday on Tuesday.
A letter warned families and students to be “wary of approaches from strangers”, especially when travelling to and from school.
“If they are approached or followed, students should not interact or respond and should not accept offers of rides or gifts,” it said.
The man is described as caucasian with a tanned complexion, short beard and was wearing dark clothing.
Anyone with information that may help police to identify the suspect is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
In 2014, police presence was boosted around Westbourne Park Primary School after a string of incidents where men tried to lure girls into cars.
Between August 6 and September 14, five reports were made. In one instance a girl was grabbed on the arm, but broke free and ran home.