As the reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction for the abductors of a 5-year-old West Philadelphia girl two weeks ago climbed to $80,000, investigators have announced that their search for the suspects is narrowing.
“Over the weekend, investigators were working very closely with the little girl involved,” Lt. John Stanford said. “The were able to actually develop a path of travel to the 6200 block of Larchwood, which has led them to focus on that area.”
That’s about five blocks from W.C. Bryant Elementary School at 6001 Cedar Avenue, where an unknown woman wearing Muslim-style dress was caught on camera walking the girl out of the building. The child was found early the next morning in an Upper Darby field, shivering and clothed only in a wet adult-sized t-shirt.
Police have also identified a third person of interest who they say made contact with the victim during her captivity. She is described as a 14 to 17-year-old black female with a thin build and long, straight black hair who may go by the name of “China.” She was last seen wearing a hoodie and tights.
“She had some contact with [the victim],” Stanford said. “What role she played, we don’t have that information at this point. But she’s definitely a person investigators want to speak with.”
Authorities previously released descriptions of a male and a female suspect they also believe to be involved in the crime.
Anyone with information is asked to call 911 or to submit an anonymous tip by dialing 215-686-TIPS (8477), texting PPD TIP (773847), emailing [email protected] or by filling out this online form.
