STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. – Local heroes in Sterling Heights were recognized for helping to stop a kidnapping.
The incident occurred on Aug. 13 when a 7-year-old girl was pulled off her bike by a stranger and forced into his vehicle.
The little girl’s aunt, Alecia Swejkoski, jumped into the car to stop the kidnapping.
A good Samaritan, Scott VanLuven, happened to be driving by and pulled over to help.
VanLuven, a Sterling Heights Citizens on Patrol member, held down the suspect until police arrived.
“It’s just something I did,” VanLuven said. “Glad I was there at the right place at the right time.”
VanLuven has been hailed a hero.
“It goes without saying that Scott is a hero,” Sterling Heights Mayor Michael Taylor said. “He deserves recognition as much as he doesn’t want it; he deserves it.”
VanLuven and Swejkoski were honored at Tuesday’s city council meeting.
“It was nice to be honored, but it’s not something you ever want to be honored for, ever,” Swejkoski said.
The little girl who was taken and her cousin who was hurt during the incident received medals for their bravery.
The suspected kidnapper has been charged with attempted unlawful imprisonment, assault and battery, kidnapping, and reckless driving.