A Pennsylvania woman was sitting on her porch in Baden when police say a man she did not know approached, spoke with her, and then tried to force her into an apartment.
The incident happened steps from her front door, according to CBS Pittsburgh, which reported that the woman told KDKA-TV she was trying to be neighborly before the encounter suddenly turned physical.
Police identified the suspect as 24-year-old Kevin Alexander Flores of Baden.
He has been charged with attempted kidnapping, unlawful restraint, false imprisonment, simple assault, and several other offenses.
The Encounter Started Outside The Apartment
According to CBS Pittsburgh, the woman said the man walked up while she was sitting outside and began talking with her. Police said the two had never met before.
Court documents cited by the station allege that Flores asked questions, commented on the woman’s appearance, and asked which apartment was hers.
Police said he then checked whether the screen door was unlocked before grabbing her from behind and trying to drag her inside.
Neighbors Intervened Before Officers Arrived
The woman told KDKA-TV that she fought him as he pulled her toward the apartment. She said the struggle continued until neighbors heard the commotion and rushed over.
Beaver County Radio, citing Beaver Valley Regional Police, reported that several nearby residents helped the victim until officers arrived.
The outlet also reported that the woman was recovering after minor injuries from the assault.
The Case Shows Why Neighbor Awareness Can Help
Police say Flores was arrested at the scene. Beaver County Radio reported that he was identified by the victim and multiple witnesses.
The National Crime Prevention Council says neighborhood watch groups are meant to stay alert, observant, and caring while reporting suspicious activity or crimes to police.
When someone turns aggressive near the front door, get away from them, make noise, and call police as soon as you can. In this case, neighbors heard the struggle and stepped in before it moved farther inside the home.