By Lookout Staff

December 6, 2011 -- Police are searching for a suspect in the attempted kidnapping of a teenage girl Sunday morning in Santa Monica's Pico Neighborhood.

The incident took place at 8:42 a.m. in the 2900 block of Pico Boulevard near the city's eastern boarder.

mid-90’s minivan similar to one used in attempt. Photo from SMPD

The victim, a 17-year-old female, was walking eastbound when she was suddenly grabbed by a male suspect who was standing alongside his parked vehicle, according to police.

"The vehicle's passenger side door was open," said Sgt. Richard Lewis. "The suspect attempted to force the victim into the vehicle, and a struggle ensued. The victim managed to free herself and ran into a nearby restaurant for safety."

The suspect fled the location in his vehicle, driving southbound on 30th street "at a high rate of speed," Lewis said.

The victim suffered minor injuries, he said. She was treated at a local hospital and released.

The suspect is described as a male Hispanic, in his mid to late 30s, 5'9" with a stocky build, police said. The suspect has brown hair and "bushy" handlebar type mustache/goatee. The suspect was wearing a black t-shirt, dark blue jeans and black shoes.

The suspect's vehicle is described as a mid-90's minivan (possibly a Toyota Previa similar to photo above), faded bluish-green in color, with a sliding passenger side door and rear tinted windows. Two characters of the rear license plate were identified as "Z" and "6".

Anyone with information should contact Detective Chad Goodwin at (310) 458-8942 or Sergeant Ira Rutan at (310) 458-8959 or the Santa Monica Police Department (24 hours) at (310) 458-8495.

Those who wish to remain anonymous can call WeTip at 1-800-78-CRIME (1-800-78-27463), or submit the tip online at www.wetip.com. Those whose information leads to an arrest and conviction may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.00.

Tipsters can also contact Crime Stoppers by either calling (800) 222-TIPS, texting from your mobile, or by visiting their website at www.lacrimestoppers.org. Callers may remain anonymous and may be qualified to receive a $1,000.00 reward by Crime Stoppers.