Parents in south-east Melbourne are on heightened alert following an incident involving a young boy approached by an unknown man in a white van. The boy, a student from St John Vianney’s Primary School in Parkdale, was heading to football practice when he encountered the man, who allegedly urged him to enter the vehicle. The boy, maintaining his composure, continued to practice and promptly reported the encounter.
Michael Schinck, the school principal, communicated the matter to parents via email, stressing the importance of awareness and vigilance. He noted, “A report has been made regarding a stranger in a white van who allegedly asked a student to hop in as they were walking from home to football training.” Schinck confirmed that the incident had been relayed to the police for further investigation.
This alarming approach follows a worrying trend of similar incidents involving a man in a white van throughout Melbourne in November and December. Authorities have yet to make any arrests in connection with these cases, leaving the community anxious and on guard.