A woman defended her child from a suspected kidnapper by using a gas pump as a weapon at an Atlanta, Georgia gas station on July 23. The incident occurred around midnight as the mother was refueling her vehicle at a Shell station.
Surveillance footage shows the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Jerahn Tucker, approaching the mother's car. After an initial exchange, Tucker retreated, but returned when the child opened and closed the passenger door. As Tucker peered into the car, the mother moved to intervene, and her son exited through the driver's side door. Tucker then allegedly pursued the child around the vehicle.
The mother then grabbed a gas pump, using it to ward off Tucker. According to police reports, Tucker also attempted to open the car's back door to reach another child in the backseat before being chased away. He then allegedly attempted to drive away from the scene.
Marietta Police Department officers, with assistance from Cobb County Police, arrested Tucker near the location shortly after the incident. He was reportedly not wearing a shirt or shoes at the time of his arrest. A THC vape was discovered in his car.
The gas station manager informed officers that Tucker had been asked to leave the property multiple times prior to the alleged kidnapping attempt. Tucker is currently facing charges of attempted kidnapping.
Officer Charles McPhilamy of the Marietta Police Department commended the mother's actions, stating that her and bystanders' composure and intervention allowed for the suspect's apprehension. The motive behind Tucker's alleged actions remains unknown. Social media profiles suggest Tucker is an aspiring musician. His employment status is unclear.