Kidnapping claim unfounded

A report of a potential kidnapping at the local Wal-Mart over the weekend was unfounded based on the results of a police investigation.

On Saturday around 2 p.m., police responded to the local retailer following a report of a possible kidnapping attempt in the Wal-Mart parking lot.

Police Sgt. Ron Harmon with the Mountain Home Police Department met with the mother of the three year old, who stated that she thought that a male subject tried to grab her daughter. After reviewing the store's video surveillance footage as part of his investigation, Harmon determined the report was unfounded, and there had been no attempt to kidnap the child.

The mother and daughter returned home without incident.

"We are fortunate in this case that this incident did not occur," said Police Sgt. Rick Viola, a spokesman with the Mountain Home Police Department. "If you suspect a child abduction or kidnapping, make sure to contact police immediately."

When making a report, people should collect as much information as possible, including a description of the victim and suspect, their direction of travel, type and color of vehicle and license plate number. This and other information can help police locate the victim and suspect, Viola said.