DENVER (KDVR) A 15-year-old girl narrowly avoided an abduction Monday morning and now police are sharing a photo of the suspect in hopes someone can help identify him.

The incident occurred at about 11:20 a.m. Monday, the Thornton Police Department said, and the girl was walking near Thornton Middle School when a male suspect attempted to grab her. She resisted, according to police, and the suspect fled the area.

The agency provided a map of where the incident took place, which appears to be between the middle school building and the football field.

The police department said that school resource officers were notified about the matter just before 4 p.m. After an initial investigation, officers found surveillance footage that showed the attempted abduction.

Police said the suspect is described as a white male who was approximately 5 feet, 8 inches or 5 feet, 9 inches tall with a slim to medium build and blonde hair. He was seen wearing a dark-colored long-sleeved shirt, blue jeans, white shoes, glasses and carrying a black backpack. Police said he may be associated with a red sedan that has a white bumper.

Investigators are still gathering suspect information and the department said it is working closely with Adams 12 Five Star Schools to ensure students and staff are safe during the investigation.

Students and families in the district are being encouraged to stay alert and take precautions, such as:

• Walking in groups
• Reporting suspicious behavior
• Reviewing safe walking routes
• Avoiding approaching unknown individuals or vehicles

Students should also seek help immediately if they feel threatened, and the district and department are urging parents and guardians to review safety tips and plans with their students.

Anyone with information about the incident or the suspect is asked to contact the Thornton Police Department tip line at 720-977-5069. Anonymous tipsters can provide information to Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-7867.