STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. (CBS DETROIT) – The Sterling Heights City Council and the Sterling Heights Police Department have acknowledged local hero Scott VanLuven on Tuesday evening to prevent a attempted kidnapping of a 7-year-old girl in august.
Sterling Heights Mayor Michael Taylor, along with council members, presented VanLuven with the Nice Neighbor Award.
“He’s not going to say he’s a hero,” Mayor Taylor told the standing-room-filled audience. “But that’s exactly what a hero would do.”
The incident occurred on August 13 when a suspect attempted to abduct a seven-year-old girl from her bicycle in Clinton River North Park. As the suspect attempted to drive away with the girl, her aunt, Alecia Swejkoski, quickly ran to the driver’s side window. Swejkoski then reached inside and grabbed the steering wheel to prevent him from driving away. The suspect allegedly drove forward and backward multiple times to throw Swejkoski out of the vehicle. Swejkoski’s son then attempted to block the suspect’s vehicle, at which point he was struck by the car.
Sterling Heights police honored Swejkoski, her son and her niece for the courage they showed during what they called one of the most terrifying moments of their lives.
“It was nice to be honored. But it’s not something you ever want to be honored for,” Swejkoski said.
Coryne Childers, the mother of the young girl targeted in the attempted kidnapping, added how difficult the past month has been for the family.
“Our normal was taken from us that day,” Childers said. “My sunshine, my happiness was taken from me. And it will never be ‘normal’ again.”
Both women thanked VanLuven for saving their families’ lives that day. They also thanked Sterling Heights’ Citizens on Patrol (COP), a volunteer group that serves as the eyes and ears for the police, of which VanLuven is a member.
“It could have been totally different,” Swejkoski said. “I’m just thankful he was there.”
The council also took time to thank the COPs for their tireless efforts to keep Sterling Heights safe.
“Sterling Heights is a safer place because of this group of volunteers,” said Councilwoman Maria G. Schmidt. “Scott, Sterling Heights is a better place with you.”
Swejkoski and Childers said their family is too afraid to return to any of the parks in Sterling Heights. They also said they are in therapy and adjusting to life after the attack. They also issued stern warnings to parents everywhere about safety.
“No child can go outside alone anymore,” Childers said. “Look what happened to her aunt. Imagine a child being alone. We just want everyone to be aware of this.”
“Everybody has to stay alert,” VanLuven added. “Watch your back. Look from side to side and see what’s happening. You have to pay attention and always stay alert.”
Walter Murphy
