Incident Near West View Elementary Prompts 'Stranger Danger' Warning from North Hills Superintendent

North Hills Superintendent Dr. Patrick J. Mannarino has sent a letter to North Hills parents following an incident near West View Elementary School Thursday afternoon.

"While walking home from a bus stop in the West View Elementary area near Stanford Avenue Thursday, a student was approached by a man." the letter said. "The man parked his vehicle along the road, exited his vehicle and began to follow the student. The child ran to a nearby neighbor's house, and the incident was immediately reported to the police and the school district."

West View Police are investigating. They say the man is white, in his mid-50's with gray hair. He was driving a green sport utility vehicle. It is unknown whether the individual posed a threat to our student.

"Regardless, this is an opportunity to remind our parents and students about stranger danger," Mannarino wrote. "I strongly urge you to talk with your child about what he/she should do if approached by a stranger. 

In North Hills School District, the safety and security of our students is of utmost importance.  The following are possible topics for discussion:

• Do not talk to strangers.
• If a vehicle stops near you, do not get in the vehicle.
• Do not speak to anyone in a vehicle.
• If a vehicle stops near you and you do not know the person, run away from the vehicle as quickly as possible.
• Always inform your parents, teacher, principal or other adult.
• Please help us keep your child safe by reinforcing these procedures." 

Anyone with any information about this incident is asked to call the West View Police Department at 412-931-2800.

Join Patch for more community news or join us on Facebook and Twitter. Check out some of today's other top stories here.