Two separate kidnapping attempts of teenage girls in Madera County

MADERA COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- Sheriff's investigators in Madera County are looking for suspects in the attempt to kidnap two teenage girls.

Both incidents took place last week. One in Oakhurst, the other in Madera Ranchos. In both cases, the girls got away, but the suspects responsible are still on the loose.

The latest abduction attempt occurred right in the middle of Oakhurst less than 100 yards from Highway 41, and close to a busy gas station convenience store. A teenage girl, not far from home stopped to take a picture of the sunset when.

"Somebody jumped out of the woods and grabbed her," said Britteny Forth. "She had her wits enough to get away from the guy and get home."

The girl suffered scratches and bruises. She told deputies two men in dark clothing attacked her. One had a Mohawk haircut.

Nearby store owner Forth says the abduction attempt has been a real shock to the community.

Forth explained, "With it being such a small town you wouldn't expect things like this to go on, so when they do it's a complete shock and awe. It's so outrageous."

The Oakhurst incident occurred Thursday night, just two days after an alleged abduction attempt in the Madera Ranchos area.

Lt. Patrick Majski with the Madera County Sheriff's Office said, "We had a girl who was walking to the school just behind a group of friends. She noticed a black van drive up behind her, male subject exited the van and ran up and grabbed her. Similar to the one in Oakhurst this girl struggled put up a little fight and was able to break free and ran home and got assistance."

The principal at Ranchos Middle School told us the school district issued an alert to students to be cautious and not to walk alone.

The Madera County Sheriff's Office is not sure if the cases are related at this time.

Lt. Patrick Majski said, "At this point we take both of these alleged kidnappings serious and at this point we try to find out who is responsible."

In each case the girls are commended for getting away and getting to safety.

Deputies are urging young women to take simple precautions. Don't walk alone, and be aware of your surroundings don't be distracted by cell phones and other devices.

Anyone with any information on these incidents is urged to contact the Madera County Sheriff's Office.