A group of good Samaritans came to the aid of a teenage girl after she was allegedly grabbed on the street. Witnesses said a man made an attempted kidnapping in broad daylight in New Jersey. But the girl was smart enough to make a scene, getting the strangers’ attention. They were able to get her back from the man, Roberto Canavalan.
Not only did they rescue the girl, but they were able to hold Canavalan in their custody until police arrived. Now, Canavalan has been arrested for his alleged kidnapping attempt. The identities of the good Samaritans have not been released.
Per NJ.com, on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, a 17-year-old girl was walking down Bergenline Avenue in North Bergen, New Jersey. Shortly after 3 p.m., a man approached, grabbing her, township police said.
The man, who was identified as Roberto Canavalan, was walking toward the girl, who hasn’t been identified. Suddenly, he reportedly ran toward her, and the girl began to struggle as he tried to take her away. Police report that she struggled for about two minutes before the man was able to drag her about a block.
Hearing the girl shouting while she struggled, three nurses from a nearby doctor’s office came out and began to help. A passerby also joined in. Police said that they were able to get the girl away from Canavalan. When police arrived, the girl, as well as the rescuers, were able to identify Canavalan. Authorities confirmed the good Samaritans had detained the suspect, making it easier for police to apprehend him.
Canavalan, 35, was arrested by police and taken to the Hudson County Correctional Facility. He is currently being held there pending his first court appearance. He has been charged with kidnapping and endangering the welfare of a child.
