A remarkable story of bravery and courage has emerged from the small town of Alpena in Michigan, where a 14-year-old boy is being celebrated as a hero for allegedly using his slingshot to protect his 8-year-old sister from being abducted from their backyard.
On Wednesday, the young girl was reportedly searching for mushrooms in her backyard when a 17-year-old suspect suddenly appeared from the woods, covered her mouth, and grabbed her around the waist in an attempt to pull her away.
The girl’s brother, who was inside their home at the time, quickly noticed the commotion and sprung into action. He grabbed his slingshot and shot something at the suspect’s head, which caused him to loosen his grip on the girl and allow her to escape. The boy then shot another projectile at the suspect which hit him in the chest, and the suspect immediately fled.
The suspect was later located and identified at a nearby gas station. Michigan State Police released a description of the suspect which helped to identify him as the alleged kidnapper. The suspect, who was not named, was arraigned in the 88th District Court on Thursday and charged as an adult with attempted kidnapping/child enticement, attempted assault to do great bodily harm less than murder, and assault and battery.
The suspect was taken to the juvenile section of the Alpena County Jail and is being held on a $150,000 cash bond.
Lt. John Grimshaw of the Alpena Post commended the 14-year-old boy for his heroic actions and stated that he had likely saved his sister’s life. Grimshaw also offered advice to anyone in an abduction situation, encouraging them to do everything they can to fight off the attacker and scream as loud as they can.
The suspect’s next court date is scheduled for May 17.